Once

Once is an independent Irish musical drama released in 2007 that swept awards around the globe with its heart-touching tunes and songs. The film is directed by John Carney and tells the story of two struggling artists, a male and female with a shared love for music. This turned out to be a breakout success after winning an ‘Academy Award’ for best original song. It later went on to inspire a hit Broadway musical.

Plot Summary

The streets of Dublin serve as the backdrop for the movie. Once follows an unnamed street performer, Glen Hansard, who is a vacuum repairman by trade and a singer by passion. His soulful heart-wrenching songs can be heard all around the streets, earning him numerous fans, amongst whom is a Czech immigrant, Marketa Irglova. Irglova herself is a passionate pianist, and her character strives to inspire him to achieve his dream of publishing an album.

As their collaboration progresses, undeniable chemistry begins to blossom between them, both musically and emotionally. However, there are countless challenges, he is suffering from a brutal heartache and she is struggling to raise her young daughter with an estranged husband. These challenges build up and bury the affection in their unvoiced relationship that beautifully depicts bittersweet love.

Their journey culminates in a recording studio where they pour every ounce of their feelings into their music, their deep felf emotions of longing, love, and heartache serving as the fuels. However, they must ultimately come to terms with the fact that some romances, regardless of their might, will never unfold as envisioned.

Themes & Style

Connection Through Music – Music is not merely an aspect of the story in the film, but serves the purpose of the narrative. Every song that is performed has deep meanings attached to it and helps tell the story further.

Realistic & Documentary-Style Authenticity – Shot with a hand-held camera and relatively low budget, Once possesses a level of tenderness and honesty that makes the audience feel as if they are experiencing reality.

Bittersweet Affection – The film takes a leap from traditional romance narrative, showcasing the bare but deep connection that does not need a happy ending to be worthy.

The Music acts as the heart of the film With no doubt, the film’s ost was widely accepted, especially the oscar award winning song “Falling Slowly”. Other hit songs include:

“If You Want Me” – A chilling piece that captures feelings of yearning and self-doubt.

“When Your Mind’s Made Up” – A painful song that portrays frustration and heartbreak. Emotionally stressed and charged.

“Say It to Me Now” – Hansard delivers an outstanding solo performance that encapsulates the film’s mood in an unforgettable manner.

Critical Reception & Awards

Academy Awarded for Best Original Song “Falling Slowly,” 2008.

Extremely praised by critics for naturalistic performances and emotional authenticity.

The film’s triumph resulted in a Broadway version which won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2012.

Legacy

Once is more than a film. It’s an experience. And its gentle yet fierce way of storytelling along with the powerful music has earned it a cult status among filmmakers and musicians. It’s a film that everyone needs to watch for the honesty and beauty of human life effortlessly captured in the songs.