Review of Once (2007) by Catherine S — 11 Sep 2010

Finally, a truly great modern musical and it doesn't feature dancing teenagers too! Once was a beautifully made, romantic, yet slightly bittersweet musical that captivates its audience rather easily. Once is a musical about a guitarist who plays a guitar in the streets of Dublin. During one of his sessions, he meets a girl from the Czech Republic, that as he learns, plays the piano. Both of them help each other with romantic problems, and of course, make beautiful music together.

Once is set in Dublin, and I gotta say, it looks spectacular in the movie. From the city to the cliffs overlooking the sea, everything is absolutely beautiful. Another thing that gives Once some individuality is how the two actors who play the main characters (Glen Hasard and Marketa Irglova, who were fantastic) actually played and sang for the movie, which is really spectacular. The script and plot, like most musicals, is dulled down for the purpose of elevating the music. But Once still has a great plot, though its script is nothing to write home about. However, even with a weaker script, Glen Hasard and Marketa Irglova make it work.

The music is phenominal, with beautiful ballads that give a the movie the needed lift that makes it truly a great film. It's no wonder how "Falling Slowly", the main song, won the Oscar for "Best Song.".

Overall, Once is a beautiful musical that works and people could possibly relate to. For those who love great quality music that isn't teeny pop and a great storyline, go see Once. (If you don't like either, then...I'm not quite sure why you're checking this out...) (Real rating: 98%).