My delight in the modern day musical 'Once' can hardly be contained; it is an understated masterpiece. It is both beautiful and truthful - two of the highest compliments that can be bestowed upon a work of art.
In 'Once', director John Carney does not attempt to tackle the biggest challenges facing the modern world, instead, he explores the ability of art (in this case music) to bond, fulfill, and heal people. He also examines the personal dilemmas we face each day as he presents his characters with challenges, asking them to decide if they should pursue a passion, or accept responsibility; if they should give in to the temptation of the moment, or do what they know to be right. The personal choices, the poignant moments, and the amazing and heartfelt music are the things that make this little film a true gem.
The story told in 'Once' takes place in Dublin in just a week. It centers around two characters, the guy and the girl, who remain nameless throughout the film. The guy is a street musician who works in his fathers Hoover repair shop by day, and pours his heart out by night as he sings and plays his own songs. The girl is a young Czech immigrant, living with her mother and small daughter. She is a talented pianist, but supports her family by selling flowers and magazines in the street, an occupation which eventually leads her to the guy.
The two characters bond over music, and a friendship develops. The guy wants to cut a record, and the girl agrees to help him. Their relationship continues to grow and their past heartbreaks are explored through their music. You get to peek into the homes, and the family life of each character, a journey which is taken in such a natural way that at times, you feel as if you are watching a home movie.
The characters of the guy and girl are deep and complex, as is their relationship. The guy is lonely, and seems to have plenty of passion for his music, yet little drive to do what it takes to get his career off the ground. The girl is also, lonely, and yet very self sufficient. She never shirks her responsibilities, and has strength and a sense of purpose to her life. She definitely knows what she is about!
The relationship between the characters is interesting, as there is definitely romantic tension. They are both lonesome, and it must have been very tempting for Carney to turn their story into a romance. It also would have ruined the movie. The ability of the characters - especially the girl - to show restraint, and to be able to hold themselves accountable for what they know to be right, defines the characters, and also defines Carney as a director.
It is interesting to note that 'Once' seems to be a film destined for greatness, against all odds. For instance, the two main characters are played by musicians, not actors, and they are not in any way typical of glamorous leading characters. Much of 'Once' was filmed on a home camera, in the flats and offices of the cast. There is no sex, violence, special effects, or Hollywood moments that could be featured in the marketing campaign. Add all of this to the fact that the budget for 'Once' did not exceed $100,000, and most people would feel certain that this film would be an enormous flop. However, in the case of 'Once'... these things all contribute to make it the beauty that it is.
I will admit this is my favorite movie of 2007. When I originally saw it, I was so moved that I immediately got in line to buy a ticket for the next showing, along with the soundtrack. It may not be the most important movie of the year on a macro scale; 'Once' does not tackle any political or social justice issues, and it is certainly not the most cinematically impressive. But if you want to see a movie that will leave you inspired by a relationship, touched by the strength of the characters, awed by the music, and hopeful about life and our ability to connect with another human being, I cannot recommend 'Once' too highly.
Fauna Gille, Minneapolis, MN
http://www.film-art-truth.blogspot.com
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