Director: John Carney | Rated: R (language) | Review date: 15-Jan-2010

Once is one of those simplistic masterpieces that manages to captivate audiences with very little effort. It’s a modern day approach to the musical, replacing the theatrical song and dance routines with honest and heartfelt singer-songwriter ballads. The performances by the guy and girl, played by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, were astounding, so much that I at times forgot that they were acting. The relationship between the two on camera is a far cry from the mushy and unrealistic Hollywood romance most often seen. Instead, this film gives us a true and modest portrayal of love in its many forms and still manages to leave us with that feelgood mood. Combined with the gorgeous streets and countryside of Dublin, the songs fit the mood perfectly and added plenty of emotional depth. For me this film not only told a beautiful story of love and following one’s heart but it also inspired. Highly recommended for anyone with a warm heart and a musical spirit. Now where’s my guitar…?

Official site/DVD | Official soundtrack | IMDb/trailers

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