Review of Good Vibrations (2012) by Jane O — 26 Mar 2015

This is a punk music version of Senna: it doesn't matter if you don't know anything about the music scene or Northern Ireland in the late 1970s, it doesn't even matter if you're not a fan of punk music, this is a tale of optimism over realism, of passion over practicalities, with a fantastic central character in Terri Hooley.

He's a ramshackle, often unsympathetic character who becomes increasingly single-minded, but his enthusiasm and vision are utterly compelling and a joy to behold. We are almost literally swept along on his drive, despite all the flaws and problems we can see.

Richard Dormer is terrific as Terri, and the supporting cast are all great, as is Belfast - virtually a character in itself. This film is energetic, life-affirming, defiant and fun. Recommended.