DIR: John Carney • WRI: John Carney • PROD: Martina Niland • DOP: Tim Fleming • ED: Paul Mullen • DES: Tamara Conboy • CAST: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová, Hugh Walsh, Gerard Hendrick, Alaistair Foley
John Carney's Once is a modern-day musical set in contemporary Dublin that tells the tale of an Irish busker and a Czech flower-seller's unlikely alliance. Known only as Guy (Glen Hansard) and Girl (Marketa Irglová), the film follows the pair's friendship over the course of a week, as they bond through their mutual love of music. The film's genre bounces between musical, romantic comedy and drama as Carney creates a 'slice of life' piece that is sweet without being sickly, and gritty without being too coarse.
Carney is a masterful storyteller; both his script and his direction create a world that completely envelops his audience, drawing them into a present-day Dublin that is depicted with great accuracy. Carney addresses various elements of a changing city (immigration, poverty, etc.) without sending a 'message' or making overt political statements; he captures the current cultural moment with sensitivity and subtlety. Small details, like Guy's battle with the junkie who tries to steal his busking income, Girl's Czech neighbours who perfect their English by watching Fair City, and a bank manager with unfulfilled dreams of rock'n'roll stardom, all ring true in a really charming way that contributes to the film's portrayal of an authentic society.
Though it is billed as a musical, Once is certainly a departure from the usual all-singing, all-dancing format. Instead of using the songs as devices to move the narrative forward, music is instead used more simply, but profoundly, as a motif woven gently throughout the film. It works as a unifying element that brings Guy and Girl together, a common bond that they can cultivate. The lyrics provide insight into the two main characters, but without a direct link to the plot at hand. Music serves as the device that draws Guy and Girl together, providing a common language for them as they forge a friendship and eventually record a demo that documents their relationship. The result is a powerful, relevant soundtrack that stays with you long after the film has ended. All of the songs were written and performed by Hansard and Irglová, who have actually released an album together independent of the film, called The Swell Season.
Hansard is very dynamic on screen. Perhaps it is because it's not too hard to believe that he's a singer/songwriter, but his depiction of Guy is incredibly genuine. He also gives a stunning musical performance – his voice has a rugged, mellow quality that suits the music perfectly. Newcomer Irglová also brings a strong presence to the screen, as well as beautiful vocals and some haunting piano performances. The chemistry between Hansard and Irgolvá is fantastic; they play off each other naturally, with both words and music. A good supporting cast, including Bill Hodnett as Guy's Dad, adds texture to the film, but it is really Guy and Girl's story. John Carney has done an excellent job of bringing these captivating, resonant characters to screen in such an engaging way.
Jennifer Saeger Killelea
Once is released on 23rd March 2007.
