A story of two people who develop a friendship through music, Once is a date night kind of movie. The stars of the movies are a couple of actual musicians and not professional actors, making it seem all the more real. It is a romantic film where the heart of the story lies in the music.
Guy (Glen Hansard) is a guitarist/singer who plays for change on the streets of Dublin, Ireland. Girl (Marketa Irglova) sells roses on the streets and is also a musician. She comes up to him one day to ask him about his music. They find a common bond through their love of music. They tell each other their stories. They make a demo with a street band. They almost fall in love.
This is not a simple love story. The love is not typical where boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl and then they ride off into the sunset. It doesn’t try to be something it isn’t. But it is more of a music video than a movie. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are not actors. Their vulnerability and lack of confidence comes across on screen. This only makes them more charming. Everyone else fades into the background. It is shot more like a documentary where you feel as if you are eavesdropping on this couple’s conversation. The streets of Dublin showcase the music. You see all walks of life as these two talk and walk. Their visits to the beach are magical. You hold your breath, waiting for something to happen. It will make you misty-eyed.
The music is the star but you find yourself wanting to know about these two people. The ending leaves you wanting to know what will happen in the future. This is good and bad at the same time.
Once is reminiscent of Before Sunrise, a tale of two people discussing life and finding a real connection. The strength of the movie lies in the harmony between these two people.
