Read User Reviews and Submit your own for Once - Page 2

9

CLJul 31, 2007

Beautiful movie with good intentions. Songs were perfect for the movie. Its nice to see a genuine movie that is not contaminated with Hollywood BS. The LOVE story was truly there. I'm happy with the ending.

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9

PJJan 12, 2008

Had no idea what I was getting into, but was dazzled, touched, and grateful for the experience.

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9

AdamBJan 17, 2008

Great movie i enjoyed it very much. The music was great and everyone needs to stop saying it sounds like coldplay because it definately does not. It sounds alot like the Frames for some reason i dont know why.... ahh i know maybe because hesGreat movie i enjoyed it very much. The music was great and everyone needs to stop saying it sounds like coldplay because it definately does not. It sounds alot like the Frames for some reason i dont know why.... ahh i know maybe because hes the lead singer of the band. You people need to do some research before you catagorize him with the successful but mediocre coldplay. The movie is great and so are the Frames.… Expand

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9

HalBMar 1, 2008

A truly wonderful little film, all the more amazing because of its very limited budget and the fact that nearly all the scenes are focused on the craft of song writing and performing original music. It is a cynical heart indeed that will not A truly wonderful little film, all the more amazing because of its very limited budget and the fact that nearly all the scenes are focused on the craft of song writing and performing original music. It is a cynical heart indeed that will not be moved by this story of two people whose lives momentarily intersect in Dublin, producing some of the best music you will ever have the privilege of hearing on screen. The ending is bittersweet, a bit unexpected, yet totally believable. The song "Falling Slowly" -- which just won an Oscar for Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova (whose performances are a revelation) -- is inspirational and beautiful. This movie is for anyone who has ever found a friend, fallen in love and then been called by their larger dreams. Very highly recommended; and perhaps the best "date movie" I have ever seen.… Expand

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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

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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.

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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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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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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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8

TonyR-SMar 2, 2008

A great, small film with unexpectedly strong performances from non-actors. So much great music (with maybe a bit too much repetition...), great pacing and real people acting, and talking, like real people. That's a nice change of pace.

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8

PaulF.Sep 7, 2007

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8

DanC.Oct 7, 2007

The film takes off with a magical early scene where the two leads make wonderful music together almost before they realize it. The funny-melancholy mood reminded me of a good Chekhov story: quiet, real, and profound. See it!

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8

SteveKJan 9, 2008

This is a very good film. It is honest, touching, and vulnerable in a way that is very affecting. The minimalist treatment of this film may not be for all; there are no carcrashes, no sex, no special effects. My two complaints are that it This is a very good film. It is honest, touching, and vulnerable in a way that is very affecting. The minimalist treatment of this film may not be for all; there are no carcrashes, no sex, no special effects. My two complaints are that it feels a little too short and the tale doesn't quite wrap up. Still emotionally satisfying, but not fully. It's hard to achieve a satisfying ending without being cheesy, but I would have liked a better attempt... what we have is 90% there for me. The music stays with you and is really what puts this movie over the top. Will it be an enduring classic? Only time will tell, but it is still leaps and bounds above 99% of the crap filling cineplexes today.… Expand

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8

CubeAug 28, 2007

I give it an 8 not because I did not thoroughly enjoy it but because a 10 really means a perfect movie. It was not perfect or flawless, I just thought it was exceptionally good. I enjoyed the music. Some complained that it was too coldplay, I give it an 8 not because I did not thoroughly enjoy it but because a 10 really means a perfect movie. It was not perfect or flawless, I just thought it was exceptionally good. I enjoyed the music. Some complained that it was too coldplay, (check it out my friends the frames were way before Coldplay so actually Coldplay sounds like this guy). And as for it being like David Grey, its just a movie, let it go. The movie does move slowly along but that does not mean its bad. There is little dialogue but I think what is said is sufficient. The fact that they had no names I thought was great and really allowed the story to be more dynamic. Finally to all those haters who do not understand the ending I feel sorry for you. They were in love, but not with each other! It ended perfectly! Finally a movie about true responsibility and love! Not some lame Bridget Jones shmoozy falsified love story that perpetuates fantasies and adulterous thoughts.… Expand

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8

ChristyJan 21, 2008

I think this is a good film.

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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.

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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

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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

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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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7

BlakeW.Oct 1, 2007

Overall a fine movie. But a tad overrated. I've heard many critics call it the best of the year. I doubt it!

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7

MaxL.Jun 12, 2007

A simple story told very well of a boy meeting a girl and their making music together at a recording studio. The music was very enjoyable and the story was heartfelt.

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7

MarkS.Sep 4, 2009

A sweet, moving story. I'm glad I saw it. But for an even better cinema-verite musical set in Dublin, watch "The Commitments." I've seen that movie at least 20 times and would gladly watch it again.

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7

DanaJan 10, 2008

Sweet movie but overrated. Overall I enjoyed it. Glad I saw it.

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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

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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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7

JLuis_001Apr 12, 2022

This film's stratagem to attract audiences is its simplicity and honesty, and that is enough in abundance.

The bottom line is that Once is a straightforward romantic story at its core, but the flirtation is natural. Nothing cheeky or withThis film's stratagem to attract audiences is its simplicity and honesty, and that is enough in abundance.

The bottom line is that Once is a straightforward romantic story at its core, but the flirtation is natural. Nothing cheeky or with tasteless comedy in between.
Everything flows through the actions of the characters and the most important thing that brings them together in the first instance, which is the music.

This is the kind of film that has zero ambition to be something it is not. It treats its audience with respect by showing them without gimmicks that what it offers is a story that doesn't seek to entertain you with filler characters or cheap sentimentality.

The two of them and the music are the engine that drives everything and Once without any complexity becomes a small but very pleasant experience that when it ends is really satisfactory.… Expand

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6

ChaseMay 25, 2007

The only reason to see this is for the music. Frankly, I've seen better stories in concert films. I went expecting to see a Musical, meaning something where the music is used to tell the story, but that's not really what's The only reason to see this is for the music. Frankly, I've seen better stories in concert films. I went expecting to see a Musical, meaning something where the music is used to tell the story, but that's not really what's going on here. In this movie, the characters are composers and performers and the music is what they do, all out of proportion to telling a story. This is more like watching a CD with brief narrative interludes.… Expand

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6

KirstenCSep 15, 2007

I liked the movie somewhat--did find the story a little forced and the repetitiveness of the music annoying....the male character drove me crazy and couldn't help thinking that if the Eastern European girl ended up with with him, their I liked the movie somewhat--did find the story a little forced and the repetitiveness of the music annoying....the male character drove me crazy and couldn't help thinking that if the Eastern European girl ended up with with him, their relationship would always be centered around him, his life, his career, etc...other than the nice gesture at the end, it was all about him.… Expand

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6

TacoJun 11, 2007

A very NICE movie, with some very NICE songs.

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6

csw12May 19, 2013

Takes about half way into the film for the characters to gel but once they do it is a satisfying movie that uses music to give it a heartwarming touch.

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6

RobertBroganOct 5, 2015

Once is a film I do not have the heart to downrate because at least the male lead is making an effort. But overall, it comes off as amateur and I am not feeling the vibe of the film. The scenario is like Lost in Translation but there is noOnce is a film I do not have the heart to downrate because at least the male lead is making an effort. But overall, it comes off as amateur and I am not feeling the vibe of the film. The scenario is like Lost in Translation but there is no chemistry and if there is no chemistry, what does it matter what happens? Still, it is an OK film, short, and not difficult to get through.… Expand

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5

DavidRFeb 6, 2008

Talk about doing the right thing in the end? Going back to a woman who cheated on you and who sounds like she wants to throw up while talking on the phone with you? And going back to an out of shape unattractive guy you don't even care Talk about doing the right thing in the end? Going back to a woman who cheated on you and who sounds like she wants to throw up while talking on the phone with you? And going back to an out of shape unattractive guy you don't even care about just because he's from the Czech Republic unlike the younger, more attractive man you've recently fallen in love with? Give me a break. Good music but the worst ending since The Godfather Part 3.… Expand

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5

RobertW.Sep 22, 2007

There are only two movies this year that I haven't enjoyed to a certain extent. This was one of them. I'm sure it will be nominated and possibly win for Best Original Screenplay, but there was no screenplay. Just songs being played There are only two movies this year that I haven't enjoyed to a certain extent. This was one of them. I'm sure it will be nominated and possibly win for Best Original Screenplay, but there was no screenplay. Just songs being played interminably. Still, I would rather have listened to the music than had the silly story that went along with it. This movie is not the reason I go to movies.… Expand

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5

JimSamuelsonJun 11, 2007

The language was unnecessarily crude for such a sweet story. The music was not that great, but the acting and the story made it worth NOT walking out - which was our initial reaction in the first five minutes. We stayed and our score wentThe language was unnecessarily crude for such a sweet story. The music was not that great, but the acting and the story made it worth NOT walking out - which was our initial reaction in the first five minutes. We stayed and our score went from an initial 1- up to a 5.… Expand

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5

MeganS.Feb 6, 2008

It was mildly entertaining and definitely had some songs that stuck in my head. However, the dialogue and story line lacked cohesiveness and fluidity, among other things. The ending definitely helped the movie, IMO, but otherwise, I It was mildly entertaining and definitely had some songs that stuck in my head. However, the dialogue and story line lacked cohesiveness and fluidity, among other things. The ending definitely helped the movie, IMO, but otherwise, I wasn't entirely impressed.… Expand

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5

CharlottePApr 13, 2011

A slight, rather unimpressive story; a sense of puzzlement overcame me every time they sang a song because frankly the songs weren't as great as the viewer was being invited to anticipate.

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4

DougD.Jun 2, 2007

I'm completely baffled by the fellow reviews on this site. You must consider this movie a musical if you want to take its reviews seriously, because the plot moves at such a snail's pace that it's hard to become engaged at all I'm completely baffled by the fellow reviews on this site. You must consider this movie a musical if you want to take its reviews seriously, because the plot moves at such a snail's pace that it's hard to become engaged at all with this movie. Not until the halfway point do the two lead's finally start to gel a bit (along with the first plot revelation). We are supposed to find the Czech immigrant's willingness to drag a vaccum cleaner around Dublin as well as her poor fashion sense as cute and endearing, but it felt forced by Carney in my opinion, like a poor man's Sam from Garden State. I feel that musicians will feel much more positively about this movie than I did, and that it must deliver something to them that it didn't bring to me. If that's the case, then may they enjoy it, because personally I haven't felt this lost at a movie since "My Summer of Love," another highly praised movie that I walked away from wondering what I missed.… Expand

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4

RobertKDec 24, 2007

I honestly don't get it. The movie had its cute moments but overall I was bored to tears. I don't see how this movie was a great romantic wonder. I'm sorry it just didn't register with me at all.

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4

RorypDec 19, 2007

At the end of the day, if you are a fan of Glen Hansard and his music, you will like this film. If, like me, you think his music (especially that solo album) is a lifeless poncy strut down the overly maligned singer songwriter route At the end of the day, if you are a fan of Glen Hansard and his music, you will like this film. If, like me, you think his music (especially that solo album) is a lifeless poncy strut down the overly maligned singer songwriter route (maligned here in ireland mainly BECAUSE of glen and his many troops of similarly tortured songs-from-a-room shitehawks who invaded the country a few years back) you will not like this film very much. The performances are grand, especially Glen, who has more experience in this area then Irglova. It has the occasional bit of humour and pathos that rings true and it… Expand

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4

JW.Jul 17, 2007

This movie had all the best intentions and deserves credit if only for crafting a heartwarming story on such a small budget with very clever direction. My main problems with it are that it's overly sentimental to a fault and that the This movie had all the best intentions and deserves credit if only for crafting a heartwarming story on such a small budget with very clever direction. My main problems with it are that it's overly sentimental to a fault and that the music is so very, er, how do I put this... Coldplay. And I don't mean that in a good way.… Expand

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4

FilipeNetoMay 5, 2021

The action of this film takes place in Dublin, Ireland, and shows the story of a young man, willing to be a musician, who plays in the streets. There, he meets a beautiful immigrant girl who is also attracted to the world of music. Both areThe action of this film takes place in Dublin, Ireland, and shows the story of a young man, willing to be a musician, who plays in the streets. There, he meets a beautiful immigrant girl who is also attracted to the world of music. Both are young, and the romantic attraction between them gradually becomes more obvious, despite the fact that she has a husband in her country (the Czech Republic) and he has a girlfriend who recently moved to London without him.

It is a relatively simple story, where two young people cultivate common interests and a friendship that may, or may not, lead to something more. For me, and although the film manages to avoid cheap sentimentality and empty and worn out romantic clichés, it is a very scarce script for a feature film, and on several occasions I felt that the film did not have a story to tell, just a succession of melodies and songs that were appearing one after the other, and that I felt were there to fill space and time. The film is very sweet, romantic and light, but it is not incredible, and I feel that it was also overestimated by the critics, especially since it was nominated for the Oscar for Best Original Song (which, by the way, it came to collect).

The cast's work is heavily penalized by the absence of material to work with and by a set of characters that were only slightly outlined and underdeveloped. The two co-protagonists, Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, nevertheless, did a job that can be considered decent: they look quite natural and their chemistry is good, although neutral and drowned out by their gifts as singers.

Technically, the film has ups and downs, but the very low production budget does not allow for great flights. The sound and the soundtrack clearly stand out, with some very high quality songs (the highlight goes, of course, to the song "Falling Slowly") and others that seem somewhat improvised. What I hated the most ended up, therefore, being the use of hand-held cameras and a shaky and tiring cinematography.… Expand

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3

EllenO.Sep 6, 2007

I liked the opening. I liked her a lot and wouldn't have watched the whole film if she hadn't have been in it. I got sick of hearing the same song over and over. I hated the camera work. I found him tedious. I found the storyline I liked the opening. I liked her a lot and wouldn't have watched the whole film if she hadn't have been in it. I got sick of hearing the same song over and over. I hated the camera work. I found him tedious. I found the storyline severely lacking. And although the characters in the movie thought the music brilliant, I didn't.… Expand

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3

RichieR.Jan 20, 2008

Similar to the disappointment of waking up on Christmas morning, not to the bright red bmx you had been promised, but instead, 6 pairs of striped socks- this movie is banal, self-reverential, sentimental tripe. I have lost two hours of my Similar to the disappointment of waking up on Christmas morning, not to the bright red bmx you had been promised, but instead, 6 pairs of striped socks- this movie is banal, self-reverential, sentimental tripe. I have lost two hours of my life and I will be contacting Glen Hansard to arrange getting them back.… Expand

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3

RickT.Jun 26, 2007

I, too, read all of these raving good reviews and went "what the F*ck?". This is a sloppy cute film that teases you for 120 minutes that there's a love story or something going on. As for cinematography, the guys hair color changes in I, too, read all of these raving good reviews and went "what the F*ck?". This is a sloppy cute film that teases you for 120 minutes that there's a love story or something going on. As for cinematography, the guys hair color changes in mid-scene and more often than Madonna's. This movie goes absolutely nowhere and has implied sexual tension that fizzles out with nary a whimper. How can you play the same songs 2-3 times in a single movie? My 10 yr old daughter's 3 minute original film had a wider array of music.… Expand

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3

CarrieBNov 10, 2008

The only thing of interest in this move is the beautiful music. But let's not judge a movie based on the soundtrack. The story is paper thin, and the weakest link is Irglova, who adds very little and is unconvincing as an actress. All The only thing of interest in this move is the beautiful music. But let's not judge a movie based on the soundtrack. The story is paper thin, and the weakest link is Irglova, who adds very little and is unconvincing as an actress. All she does in the first fifteen minutes is ask a stranger multiple times about his old girlfriend. The fact that they play out entire songs that don't drive the plot is another mistake. One-dimensional characters and lack of story kill this film. I saw Hansard & Irglova in concert and unlike the movie, didn't walk away wanting my money back.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

3

BenK.Dec 17, 2007

When I went to see "Once," I thought it was going to be an small, romantic musical movie, as it had been described from various sources. For the first twenty minutes of the film, it seemed like this could've gone somewhere. But, it When I went to see "Once," I thought it was going to be an small, romantic musical movie, as it had been described from various sources. For the first twenty minutes of the film, it seemed like this could've gone somewhere. But, it didn't. This would've worked mush better as a twenty minute short film, than a whole feature-length film. The only good part about it was the song "Falling Slowly." So, yeah.… Expand

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3

pgDec 25, 2007

waaaaaaaaay over-hyped!! not fun like a real musical nor meaningful like 'dancer in the dark'. atch at your own risk. sappiest indie movie ever.

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3

SamDogAug 30, 2012

We wanted to see this musical based on the instruments and the singing. That was all awesome but the language was terrible! If you don't mind hearing the "F" bomb every sentence, then this musical is for you. We really would have enjoyedWe wanted to see this musical based on the instruments and the singing. That was all awesome but the language was terrible! If you don't mind hearing the "F" bomb every sentence, then this musical is for you. We really would have enjoyed this musical based on it's content however, it was ruined! Maybe they talk that way in Ireland and that's the reason the language was so foul! Either way, could have done without it!!!!!!!… Expand

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2

AdamS.Feb 1, 2008

The movie had one or two good songs, but that was it and they continued to play them over and over. There wasn't much to the movie. It was boring and was disappointing after hearing so much positive regarding it.

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2

JenL.Jun 4, 2007

The plot of the 120 minute film goes absolutely nowhere and amounts to nothing, much like the typical singer/songwriter songs that fill out the running time. Worse still, all the people falling over these simple songs like he's the next The plot of the 120 minute film goes absolutely nowhere and amounts to nothing, much like the typical singer/songwriter songs that fill out the running time. Worse still, all the people falling over these simple songs like he's the next Bob Dylan makes this seem like nothing more than a vanity project. The movie is also filmed in a very jerky manner that made many of the older people in the audience sick. Avoid at all costs.… Expand

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2

TomWJul 10, 2007

Totally agree with negative reviews. How did this get such great reviews/ It wasn't terrible, but it offered so little. It wasn't touching, romantic, well written, or well directed. The music was fine enough, but that just makes it Totally agree with negative reviews. How did this get such great reviews/ It wasn't terrible, but it offered so little. It wasn't touching, romantic, well written, or well directed. The music was fine enough, but that just makes it feel like a documentary on David Gray.… Expand

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2

cameronc.Jan 3, 2008

I heard so many good things about this movie's music and was completely let down. I swear to god, i am not exaggerating, i had to cover my ears during that scene in the back of the music shop. She was "harmonizing" with him while he I heard so many good things about this movie's music and was completely let down. I swear to god, i am not exaggerating, i had to cover my ears during that scene in the back of the music shop. She was "harmonizing" with him while he sang- really just singing like a 6th below him the entire time. a lacking storyline for yet another stupid artsy film.… Expand

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2

PeteWJan 12, 2008

Possibly the most-hyped movie of 2007, Once is a lot like its characters: seedy and unprepossessing on the surface, but wildly in love with its own self-proclaimed whimsical creativity just beneath. Ultimately just another story about a boy Possibly the most-hyped movie of 2007, Once is a lot like its characters: seedy and unprepossessing on the surface, but wildly in love with its own self-proclaimed whimsical creativity just beneath. Ultimately just another story about a boy with a guitar and the girl who inspires him (the ballyhooed "modern musical" angle doesn't hold up to scrutiny; musicals use music to tell a story, but the plot of Once grinds to a halt every time the characters feel like cranking out another falsetto-y power ballad about lost loves, which is often), the only truly original thing about Once is that it completely excises the obligatory love story from the formula, replacing it with a sort of friendship-of-desperation between two very lonely people who only seem to be together at all because they both happen to be musicians. They chat about random trivia, record some songs, lean on each others' shoulders a bit, and that's the whole substance of their "captivating, elegant, uplifting, engaging, magical" relationship (the girl, especially, is clearly holding the guy at arm's length for most of the movie, even though it was she who creepily approached him in the first place). They are NOT in love, though hardly anyone who saw the movie seems to realize this, and it's clear from early on that they probably never will be what with all the complications in their lives. As for the music, one reviewer summed it up with a single word ("Coldplay") and there's nothing I can add to that. As one last thought, take a look through the comments and pay attention to how many of the people praising Once don't seem to actually like the movie itself so much as the fact that it's not a major Hollywood film. I give it credit for shrewdness in that regard: there's definitely a demographic who like having their scruffy-indie-underdog-outsider egos stroked and Once plays them like a Stradivarius. Doesn't make it a good movie, though.… Expand

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2

Johnny2centsJan 23, 2008

Surely I must have been on another planet and it all just went over my head. People were dazzled and touched by this movie?? I was frazzled and bamboozled. I banged my head against the wall to make sure I wasn't comatose.

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2

NigelM.Mar 25, 2008

Vastly overated. This is a pleasant enough film to begin with, but quickly turns into an elongated advert for some fairly dodgy and twee music. The story doesn't really go anywhere and there is so little dialogue between songs that I Vastly overated. This is a pleasant enough film to begin with, but quickly turns into an elongated advert for some fairly dodgy and twee music. The story doesn't really go anywhere and there is so little dialogue between songs that I didn't care what happened to the characters anyway. It was a relief when it was all over.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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EdS.Nov 18, 2009

This just shows how a film that is panned in its native ireland can get such great reviews in the u.s, its one of the worst most cliched embarrassingly bad movies i've ever seen what americans see as magical most irish and british This just shows how a film that is panned in its native ireland can get such great reviews in the u.s, its one of the worst most cliched embarrassingly bad movies i've ever seen what americans see as magical most irish and british people think is utter toss… Expand

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2

StephensJ.Dec 19, 2007

so cooool

0 of 1 users found this helpful

2

JenLoveAug 15, 2007

"Actually, Jen L., it was 88 minutes. What film did you see or do you like to give negative ratings when everyone else is positive?"--Ah, it must have felt like two hours, because, as others have said, the songs make the film drag on. I saw"Actually, Jen L., it was 88 minutes. What film did you see or do you like to give negative ratings when everyone else is positive?"--Ah, it must have felt like two hours, because, as others have said, the songs make the film drag on. I saw the same film, and everyone is not positive. Just look around. Other people have pointed out the same flaws in this little vanity project.… Expand

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1

TomPJul 10, 2007

I agree with Bob W. I walked out of this film. Banal music, nauseatingly shaky camera work, irritating male character. The people I was with, one of whom is a filmmaker, also thought it was terrible. What do people see in this film?

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

BobW.Jul 5, 2007

I would vote zero except that I am not sure my vote would be counted. This is one of the worst movies I have ever seen. If I could pick one word to describe it, it would be "annoying" The grainy photography gets annoying, his voice gets I would vote zero except that I am not sure my vote would be counted. This is one of the worst movies I have ever seen. If I could pick one word to describe it, it would be "annoying" The grainy photography gets annoying, his voice gets annoying, the little turns that appear and go nowhere get annoying, and the fact that nothing is resolved between the guy, his girlfriend and his new found songwriter gets annoying. I simply can't understand the high ratings for this movie. I am not an unsophisticated moviegoer. I like offbeat movies, and artsy movies, but this one is not artsy, and it certainly is way offbeat. It is so offbeat that it totally misses the mark.… Expand

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1

MichaelF.Jan 27, 2008

My wife and I both felt this movie was way over-rated from the critics. Different tastes I guess. We could only watch half of it. Very boring. I guess one has to really enjoy music and singing (over and over and over) to like this movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

KenCJan 10, 2008

Could not finish the movie - yawn - like the same song played the entire movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

FranklinHJul 9, 2007

The music sucks. Maybe if you really like derivative-folk-rock-david gray rip off ballads you'll like the music. What little story there is is linear and uninteresting. There is a pathetic attempt at some kind of climax that The music sucks. Maybe if you really like derivative-folk-rock-david gray rip off ballads you'll like the music. What little story there is is linear and uninteresting. There is a pathetic attempt at some kind of climax that doesn't pay off bc it's never earned and we have no reason to care for these characters and their relationship whatsoever. Once, was one time too many. BOOM!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

Ann-MarieC.Jan 28, 2008

I found Once to be a completely boring and pretentious excuse for a movie. The chemistry between the two main characters is so terrible, it was actually difficult to watch. I didn't believe it for a second of it. The main character was I found Once to be a completely boring and pretentious excuse for a movie. The chemistry between the two main characters is so terrible, it was actually difficult to watch. I didn't believe it for a second of it. The main character was a pathetic, sap who I felt no empathy for - his self-pity and constant pining for an unrequited love makes him utterly unlikeable. As for the writing, it is so boring and uninteresting, I found myself losing interest about 10 minutes in. This script is the movie's biggest flaw. I found it so unromantic - it made me bitter! That said, low budget movies can be brilliant - films like 2 Days in Paris, Tape, Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Last Night and Waydowntown can attest to that.… Expand

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SarahM.Mar 24, 2008

Sub David Gray codswollop of the highest order! Whilst I don't mind pretension in cinema, I find this film almost offensive in its desperate desire to be hip and cool. One word review, CRAP.

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HimfJ.Aug 29, 2008

Boring and incredibly predictable. A waste of time and money.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

NickADec 14, 2007

This movie was like a MTV "behind the music show" it was slooooooow, not fun to watch, and dialog hard to understand for U.S. english speakers.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

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JohnS.Jan 28, 2008

This movie was not only boring, stupidly self-indulgent and poorly acted - it is also bad for your health. While watching it, a little vomit came up. This mostly happened during the moments when the sappy bastard with the guitar sang his This movie was not only boring, stupidly self-indulgent and poorly acted - it is also bad for your health. While watching it, a little vomit came up. This mostly happened during the moments when the sappy bastard with the guitar sang his pathetic songs about unrequited love. No wonder his woman left him, he's a seriously big loser living in his father's attic and pathetically (and to no avail) trying to get laid by a single mom. Watching snow on TV is definitely more entertaining than this lame shit! And no, it's not because it doesn't have a big budget. you don't need a big budget to make a good film. Tape, Dancer in the Dark, Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Waydowntown and Last Night are all low-budget masterpieces.… Expand

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