Review of Once (2007) by Greg M — 02 May 2012
I wanted to love this movie. I can't. Two rather lonely musicians find each other and become a songwriting duo. The "twist" is that he's a REAL Irishman with red hair, etc.; she's an immigrant from central Europe with a peculiar name, a menial job, and an accent.
In an age of Multiculturalism that means you HAVE to appreciate this hook-up, and by extension the movie. Unfortunately, the lead players are totally lacking in screen charisma. Worse still, the music is no more than mediocre.
(I mean--if they were making songs to equal Simon & Garfunkel, this would be a winner regardless of its other lack of virtues). But instead we're left with little plot and NO sex or romance. Watching two ordinary people with ho-hum musical talent find themselves as a musical duo is itself pretty ho-hum.
The notable UPDATE on this review is that Broadway has taken this movie and made a stage play of it (as of 2012). Somehow it's been nominated for numerous Tony awards. Though on the other hand, when WAS the last time Broadway made a great musical play, one to The Music Man or The Fantasticks? (Don't EVEN cite that garbage Chicago, please.
..not buying that).
This review of Once (2007) was written by Greg M on 02 May 2012.
Once has generally received very positive reviews.
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