Once
Fox Searchlight Pictures | Release Date: May 16, 2007
8.2
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 380 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
310
Mixed:
30
Negative:
40
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
AndrewK.Jun 27, 2007
Wow. What can I say about this movie that hasn't already been said. Anyone who didn't like the movie just doesn't get it. And if you would use characters from Garden State as something to strive for, you have no idea what a Wow. What can I say about this movie that hasn't already been said. Anyone who didn't like the movie just doesn't get it. And if you would use characters from Garden State as something to strive for, you have no idea what a good character is. The music is amazing. The acting is imperceptible. Marketa Irglova does not pale in comparison at all to her costars, as one reviewer suggests. This film is musical, but it's not a "musical." It flows like real life. Not the type of film that immediately hits you as being "great." It's the kind of "great" that sneaks up on you.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DeniseD.Jun 29, 2007
A bravely focused film. Musicians and the lives they lead -- their music, heartbreak, frustrations, camaraderie, struggling-artist lifestyle, and return always to music again. Woven together with a love story of mutual appreciation and A bravely focused film. Musicians and the lives they lead -- their music, heartbreak, frustrations, camaraderie, struggling-artist lifestyle, and return always to music again. Woven together with a love story of mutual appreciation and kind-hearted respect... how rare is that! Sweet and subtle and satisfying to the soul. (I have to say to the very few low-score givers who "just don't get it" -- where is your inner poetry? I fear that growing up on a diet of action films and cartoons has stunted your artistic soul. You have my sympathies (as does your significant other.)… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ColinQJul 14, 2007
A wonderful warm movie for people with warm hearts. Those nitpicking it probably are single, bitter men who not only don't get love, because they're so dense and dour literally can't get love.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
katJul 28, 2007
This was a sweet, romantic film. But I think some here have gotten carried away with the enthusiastic reviews. I fear it will raise expectations and result in a backlash. The story was a great little snapshot into the characters' lives. This was a sweet, romantic film. But I think some here have gotten carried away with the enthusiastic reviews. I fear it will raise expectations and result in a backlash. The story was a great little snapshot into the characters' lives. There's not a lot of dialogue, but if you aren't familiar with an Irish accent it may be hard to understand (just guessing here though, I understood OK.) The songs are nice, but a couple of times both my husband and I thought they went on too long and slowed down the movie. I understand people are tired of typical Hollywood films, but this film wasn't perfect either, but it was a pleasant way to spend a Saturday afteroon.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DavidBJan 15, 2008
Pete W is the most hyped and overated commenter of 2008.
I have to disagree with everything that he wrote, the songs are not anything like Coldplay, the characters are not seedy, and I don't think the movie producers were acting allPete W is the most hyped and overated commenter of 2008.
I have to disagree with everything that he wrote, the songs are not anything like Coldplay, the characters are not seedy, and I don't think the movie producers were acting all shrewd as your preposterous ideas suggest. The movie Once wasnt concocted in some board room to try to appeal to any one demographic. Its just a nice simple movie, and I would be interested in the kind of drivell that you give a higher rating to.

I think the songs were amazing, I went and got the soundtrack straight after, I think they fitted in and moulded themselves into the storyline much better than most musicals, where the characters just randomly sing for no reason. I loved the storyline, and the way it wasn't the typical ending. I thought the acting was understated and terrific, not like some scene chewing actors these days.
I liked the movies simplicity, but not just because it is not a big hollywood movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ChristyJan 21, 2008
I think this is a good film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JohnHJan 31, 2008
Full of heart and warmth, Once takes you in from the first scene and doesn't let you go until after the credits roll. The music was divine, what a wonderful way to tell a story.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
OrangeZenFeb 11, 2008
Honest, poignant, and simple, Once is a gem of film and of the type that Hollywood is simply incapable of making.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
StephenBFeb 26, 2008
I think it is the perhaps the greatest challenge to make a movie so simple, naked and unpresupposing work -- and this one miraculously manages to work almost every level. I don't hate this kind of music as some do (see below!), but I think it is the perhaps the greatest challenge to make a movie so simple, naked and unpresupposing work -- and this one miraculously manages to work almost every level. I don't hate this kind of music as some do (see below!), but I'm not a great fan either. Still watching these people connect through the music and find some solace (for a time) in each other's company is engrossing. The lack of an overt sexual component actually adds to the tension, and focuses your attention on every detail of their behavior for clues. Each of the songs, whether good or less good, actually move our understanding of these characters and their situation along in subtle ways while playing on our own desires for them. Funny thing, it was only at the end, feeling utterly sad and elated at the same time, that I sat back and realized I had watched a musical!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JamieS.Mar 28, 2008
It gets a solid 8. Crazy eyed Hansard, and Doe eyed Irglová certainly held chemistry, but circumstance leads to sadness in a lonely window at the end. Yeah! for independent films, we are now starting to see quality coming from the It gets a solid 8. Crazy eyed Hansard, and Doe eyed Irglová certainly held chemistry, but circumstance leads to sadness in a lonely window at the end. Yeah! for independent films, we are now starting to see quality coming from the small digital camera revolution. Very much liked the film, but was kicking myself for some mistakes that could have made it perfect. So I'm holding out for a sequel called "Once more" where another deeply moving song brings them back together to finally fall in love. As many know, they are dating in real life, so it makes for a multi-dimensional viewing and gossip experience :)… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
WilliamK.Jan 19, 2009
Outstanding film with a beautiful soundtrack.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JakeWDec 27, 2007
Actually Blake W., it might just be on several critics best of the year because in their opinion, it is. Maybe you don't feel that way, but I'm sure may others will disagree with you. Your opinion is not the final say believe it or not.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PaulaV.Dec 31, 2007
A subtle musical love story that scores big in my mind and heart. I highly recommend it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RavenousMay 22, 2012
In an era soaked in trite Hollywood special effects, this film defies all convention and actually achieves greatness on the merits of simple, effective storytelling and lovable characters. And of course, the soundtrack is also fantastic, withIn an era soaked in trite Hollywood special effects, this film defies all convention and actually achieves greatness on the merits of simple, effective storytelling and lovable characters. And of course, the soundtrack is also fantastic, with a brilliant presentation of both melody and harmony rarely heard anymore in modern music.… Expand
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10
NKOASNov 17, 2012
Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova star in this incredible low-budget Irish gem, as well as compose the gorgeous soundtrack, winning an Oscar for "Falling Slowly". In a decade of pushing the envelope and huge budgets, it is a simple film madeGlen Hansard and Marketa Irglova star in this incredible low-budget Irish gem, as well as compose the gorgeous soundtrack, winning an Oscar for "Falling Slowly". In a decade of pushing the envelope and huge budgets, it is a simple film made on two handy-cams, that proves to touch the most viewers.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
Komond_DeckardJul 13, 2011
It has surely one of the best song-based soundtracks in the film history. I like the subtle love story, but there are some scenes that, though surely realistic, an everyday thing that want us to get into the story, had the completely oppositeIt has surely one of the best song-based soundtracks in the film history. I like the subtle love story, but there are some scenes that, though surely realistic, an everyday thing that want us to get into the story, had the completely opposite effect on me. But is easy to see, interesting and enjoyable.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
hoops2448Apr 1, 2012
In recent years there has been a string of movies about the music industry or that used music to tell a story. Once does neither. It uses music to compliment its story in that two musicians in Dublin find each other and through their love ofIn recent years there has been a string of movies about the music industry or that used music to tell a story. Once does neither. It uses music to compliment its story in that two musicians in Dublin find each other and through their love of music learn to move on from their respective heartaches. It's an incredibly touching movie that cannot be described, it just has to be seen. The performances by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are great and the direction is wonderful because of its simplicity. However the music in Once is the real draw as it adds flavour to the story and helps develop the burgeoning relationship between the leads. In comparison to the multitude of music films out today, including the dire High School Musical series, it is a masterpiece.… Expand
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10
StevenFSep 2, 2013
There are no shiny sets, larger than life characters or unorthodox costumes in this modern day musical, but this is an unorthodox musical in itself, and is a touching story of friendship, talent and unlikely partnerships in unlikelyThere are no shiny sets, larger than life characters or unorthodox costumes in this modern day musical, but this is an unorthodox musical in itself, and is a touching story of friendship, talent and unlikely partnerships in unlikely circumstances. We all pass the 'Big Issue' seller or the talented busker in the town, granted they aren't always talented but anyway, here we have two unlikely companions in the form of a busker man (Glen Hansard) and 'Big Issue' seller woman (Markéta Irglova) they are not named in the film, part from the mans father calling him 'son', they meet each other over talks about vacuum cleaners and songs, songs which they begin writing together, the man lives with his dad and frequently goes out busking in an attempt for more money, but realise he holds into grief from a previous relationship which his new companion picks up on almost immediately. They together attempt to 'make it big' and in the process learn plenty about each other, what is most striking about this is the ordinary of nature of it all, they both live working class and simple lives, but never play the big ego card of dreaming for the stars, they happen across one another and practice together in a music store on their lunch breaks, he lives a routine of helping his dad and chasing young people trying to steal is busking profit, she is from another country and sells flowers, more than likely to fund her mother and daughter who also live with her.
This plain and realistic approach shows a very unique element with 'Once', we usually have a musical number in a film with orchestras, fireworks or some massive backing group, but here we have more candid and realistic situations, she needs batteries for her CD player, and so she sings the song to herself on her way back home, while he may be standing outside HMV attempting to put more money in his pocket, these don't have the expensive boom that bigger budget musicals would have, but these just feel so much more personal, natural and real.
The performances of the two leads are grounded and true, it feels quite real as if a documentary is happening, especially a particular scene in a recording studio which just hits all the right notes, breathtaking comes mind. This is a true treasure of a film with an honest approach and budget style of filmmaking, it is a musical through and through which feels real, natural, mainly because these are first and foremost musicians, the documentary style benefits this while we also having a compelling story and typical Irish humour that mixes nicely with an otherwise slow and steady film.… Expand
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7
beingryanjudeAug 28, 2014
One of the simplest films of late. It's brilliance lies with two individuals connecting over their love of music. The music they make together is merely an impressive add-on.
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7
SpangleDec 30, 2015
One of the most magical and romantic films to be released in a while, Once is a phenomenally enjoyable journey that sweeps you up in its mystique and wraps you up in a great hug. I don't know what that means, but it just does. Trust me. TheOne of the most magical and romantic films to be released in a while, Once is a phenomenally enjoyable journey that sweeps you up in its mystique and wraps you up in a great hug. I don't know what that means, but it just does. Trust me. The acting is great and authentic. John Carney's direction is very natural and really contributes to the authentic feeling of the film. The music is absolutely gorgeous and entirely infectious. Watching the music come together is fantastic. I also like the narrative structure, which is not there at all. Yet, I like that. Though it can feel a little directionless and feels incomplete, it is essentially designed as a slice of life film. Of course it does not feel complete. Though not quite a great film, Once is still wonderfully crafted and a truly enjoyable experience for a viewer. You will struggle to not have these songs stuck in your head for a long time after viewing.… Expand
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9
SwatiSep 25, 2013
This film proves that as long as you have a decent script and acting, the film will work just fine. Newbies try to act extra smart and bring in special effects and CGI, forgetting what it really takes to make a film tick. It is about twoThis film proves that as long as you have a decent script and acting, the film will work just fine. Newbies try to act extra smart and bring in special effects and CGI, forgetting what it really takes to make a film tick. It is about two people passionately in love with music, and finding support in each other. The plot is even more simple than that, and that's where the beauty of the film lies. I recommend this to all music lovers… Expand
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9
MTPMay 3, 2013
Great movie, I only give it a 9 because 10 is reserved for something really extra special and there is no 9.5. I ask myself "why don't the big boys make movies like this"? The problem is they could make low budget movies but they can't keepGreat movie, I only give it a 9 because 10 is reserved for something really extra special and there is no 9.5. I ask myself "why don't the big boys make movies like this"? The problem is they could make low budget movies but they can't keep their hands off it. What studio would put out such a movie? Production, plain and a little rough; script nice story but no action; actors, there were none in this movie; music, blows me away. The thing is in THIS movie it all works together. If this would have been a studio movie, polished by the know it alls it would just be another over edited, over acted, re-scripted, re-mixed, cut, compromised ruined masterpiece. Before I am finished a little about the music, it is real, it is good. This is real music, I am tired of studios trying to pass off lame supposed cutting edge music that some jingle composer whipped out the last night before recording. Don't plan on seeing this once, you will watch it over and over again.… Expand
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10
eagerpatienceMay 21, 2015
A truly phenomenal film and it's beautifully written. I stumbled into seeing this movie when I walked into the living room and it was on the tv and Glen was performing "Say It To Me Now" during the opening credits, and I instantly fell inA truly phenomenal film and it's beautifully written. I stumbled into seeing this movie when I walked into the living room and it was on the tv and Glen was performing "Say It To Me Now" during the opening credits, and I instantly fell in love with this film. It's the only musical that I've genuinely loved, and it's been my favorite movie for over 2 years now. Just about every scene is breathtakingly beautiful, the music is superb, and makes you feel like you get sucked right into the ride.… Expand
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9
AngelSantosApr 27, 2018
Once is a wonderful, grounded, beautiful, love story, where there are not twists, or great problem, is just people falling in love with music and with themselves, it creates a beautiful story with beautiful music and characters
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8
ahmedaiman1999Mar 21, 2021
This is frequently compared with Before Sunrise, and I'm pretty sure Careny viewed Linklater's first installment in his Before trilogy as an inspiration making this little indie gem. Never have I ever thought I would be once again overwhelmedThis is frequently compared with Before Sunrise, and I'm pretty sure Careny viewed Linklater's first installment in his Before trilogy as an inspiration making this little indie gem. Never have I ever thought I would be once again overwhelmed by the same emotions while watching Before Sunrise for the first time, let alone from watching another film. But whilst the conversations and what they offer of random insights of life form the true essence of Linklater's masterpiece, as well as the bulk of his body of work; Carney's propensity to infuse the spirit of music in his movies and his knack for making it find its way across them has never been so palpable, and so prominent, as it is here. Not only is "Guy" and "Girl"'s mutual passion for music the force that draw them together, but it's also their way of communicating their feelings with each other; a language that's more expressive and revealing than either English or Czech. It's one of these movies that have music as an integral part of them so much so they can nearly be classified as Musical films. Bradley Cooper's A Star is Born is a case in point. Correspondingly, the movie channels empathy in all of us, something that's further bolstered by the impactful and raw soundtrack that seems to capture the heart and soul of busking, and the hand-held camera and grainy images that lended a sense of realism to this sensational experience. What held Once back from a higher score is that it seemed that the two leads' consequences of their past loves that hinder their relationship suddenly popped into their minds, as if they've been quite oblivious to them except at some exact point. That's why the denouement feels abrupt to me. Still, Once is quite possibly my new favourite Carney.

(8.5/10)… Expand
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10
chocobrowniesJan 25, 2019
This movie is just so brilliant. I love the ending and it really gives inspiration to other aspiring musicians. One of the best film I've ever watched.
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10
tomlilyputNov 21, 2020
beautiful, poignant portrayal by Girl (Marke’ta) and terrific music. A soul affirming/restoring experience.
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9
DunkaccinoMay 18, 2023
It seems such an unexceptional plot, but yet with Carney and our two stars' talents, we are affected so completely and emotionally. Maybe sometimes simplicity is the best thing a film can have.
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