IHM Staff Pick – Feb. 25, 2010: "Once"
Once (2006)
Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová
Directed by: John Carney
Genre: Drama, Romance, Music
Rating: R
Once is a low budget independent Irish film written and directed by John Carney. Set in Dublin, it tells the story of an unnamed busker (Glen Hansard) and an immigrant woman (Markéta Irglová) who begin to fall for one another. The two write, perform and record songs through which their true feelings are conveyed.
Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová are both professional musicians by trade and composed the soundtrack for this film, which received a Grammy nomination. The song “Falling Slowly” received a 2008 Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Though this film doesn’t have a very complex plot, the story is very moving and enjoyable. The characters feel a bit awkward at times, but the emotion they display is real, and the songs that the duo wrote and sing are breathtaking. Once can be described as a modern musical, but not in the sense that a ton of people randomly break out into song. Instead, the songs performed in the movie disclose what the two main characters are feeling at any given moment, and they come naturally. Because the plot revolves around a busker – a musician who plays in public gatherings for tip money – the performances never feel intrusive or out of place. The compositions convey raw emotion that could not be effectively understood in any other form, and are absolutely beautiful.
Once is inspirational and moving, and is certainly worth your time. If you need something to watch this weekend, be sure to check this one out if you haven’t already.
Rent Once on Netflix
Once soundtrack on Amazon
Buy Once on Amazon
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