Once (2007)
Raiting: 
7,9 /10
Genre: Drama
Director: John Carney
Stars: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová and Geoff Minogue
Country: Ireland
Release date: 23 March 2007
Length: 85 minutes
"Once" (2007), directed by John Carney, is a beautifully understated musical film that captures the spontaneous and transformative power of music. Set in Dublin, Ireland, the film follows the unexpected relationship that develops between two struggling musicians: a street busker and a Czech immigrant.
The male protagonist, known simply as "Guy", is an Irish singer-songwriter who plays guitar on the streets of Dublin, pouring his heart into songs that reflect his unrequited love for a girl who has moved to London. His life takes a turn when he meets "Girl", a Czech pianist and single mother who is drawn to his music. An immediate bond forms between the two when she approaches him after a performance in a music shop where she occasionally plays piano.
Discovering their shared passion for music, the pair decide to collaborate. The Girl helps the Guy to record a demo of his music, with the hope that he can take it to London and pursue a career in music, and perhaps reconnect with his lost love. They enlist the help of a motley crew of local musicians to create the recordings, capturing the raw and genuine sound that the Guy's songs deserve.
Throughout the process of making music together, the Guy and the Girl grow closer, sharing their dreams, disappointments, and hopes. Their connection is palpable, yet it is underpinned by an understanding that their relationship is fleeting and complicated by their respective personal circumstances. The film culminates in the completion of the demo and the Guy's decision about whether to go to London, leaving the audience with a sense of poignancy and the bittersweet nature of their brief encounter.
"Once" is a film that resonates through its simplicity and authenticity. The music, composed and performed by the lead actors Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, is integral to the narrative, acting as a character in its own right. The film's raw portrayal of music as a means of connection and expression lends it a unique charm that has endeared it to audiences worldwide. With its subtle storytelling and naturalistic performances, "Once" is a touching ode to the dreams and relationships that shape our lives, even if just for a fleeting moment.
Top cast - Once (2007)
Mal Whyte
Bill
Trailer - Once (2007)
"Once" (2007), directed by John Carney, is an enchanting and unassuming film that captures the essence of music as a universal language of connection. This low-budget indie film stands out for its raw emotion, captivating music, and the authentic chemistry between its lead actors, Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, who are also musicians in real life. Set against the backdrop of Dublin's streets, "Once" is a modern-day musical that redefines the genre with its realism and simplicity.
The film's storyline is a minimalist love story that focuses on the unnamed protagonists known as "Guy" and "Girl." Hansard's character is a heartbroken busker and vacuum repairman, while Irglová's is a Czech immigrant and single mother trying to make ends meet. Their chance encounter evolves into a creative partnership that feels as organic as it is beautiful, with each scene naturally flowing into the next. The dialogue is sparse, yet every word carries weight, allowing the music to drive the narrative and express the characters' emotions.
One of the most striking aspects of "Once" is its music. The songs are not only integral to the story but are also deeply moving in their own right. The Oscar-winning song "Falling Slowly" is a standout, encapsulating the film's theme of hope and the power of music to bring people together. The soundtrack is a character in itself, reflecting the film's emotional landscape and the connection between Guy and Girl. The performances are raw and passionate, recorded live and unembellished, which adds to the film's sense of authenticity.
The cinematography of "Once" complements its storytelling approach, with Carney opting for a handheld camera that adds an intimate and documentary-like feel to the film. This choice enhances the viewer's engagement with the characters and their journey, creating an immersive experience that feels almost voyeuristic. The streets of Dublin provide a gritty and vibrant setting that contributes to the film's charm and sense of place.
In conclusion, "Once" is a refreshing take on the musical genre, offering a heartfelt and genuine story that resonates with audiences. Its success lies in its simplicity, the undeniable chemistry between Hansard and Irglová, and the evocative music that serves as the film's soul. John Carney has created a timeless piece that celebrates the beauty of human connections forged through the love of music. "Once" is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, a testament to the power of art to transform and connect us in the most unexpected ways.