Once

2006-Drama/Musical
Ireland/Europe

As soon as I heard that this was one of those "Modern Day Musicals" I knew i had to view this film. With all the hype that this film got with the 'Indy' crowed and Europeans there were some doubts I had, and feared that this film was just one of those films made at the 'Right Place at the Right Time' thing like the 'Blare Witch Project'. So coming into this film, i was in a state of mixed nuts.

Synopsis:
An (unnamed) Guy is a Dublin guitarist/singer-songwriter who makes a living by fixing vacuum cleaners in his Dad's Hoover repair shop by day, and singing and playing for money on the Dublin streets by night. An (unnamed) Girl is a Czech who plays piano when she gets a chance, and does odd jobs by day and takes care of her mom and her daughter by night. Guy meets Girl, and they get to know each other as the Girl helps the Guy to put together a demo disc that he can take to London in hope of landing a music contract. During the same several day period, the Guy and the Girl work through their past loves, and reveal their budding love for one another, through their songs.

All-in-All:
There is charm in this film and it recognizes the 'Not Too Grand' approach by taking a laid back premise and sticks to a more grounded tale of Guy meets Girl. The film has an organic feel, and characters are relatable and seems genuine, its hard to tell if they are acting or just being themselves, directing was basic and the main star on the film is the music. The music is both haunting and meaningful, the soundtrack is a must for fans of the film.

Riko's Rating: B