Cast
View All
Glen Hansard
as Guy
Markéta Irglová
as Girl
Hugh Walsh
as Timmy Drummer
Gerard Hendrick
as Lead Guitarist
Alaistair Foley
as Bassist
Geoff Minogue
as Eamon
Bill Hodnett
as Guy's Dad
Danuse Ktrestova
as Girl's Mother
Darren Healy
as Heroin Addict
Mal Whyte
as Bill
Marcella Plunkett
as Ex Girlfriend
Niall Cleary
as Bob
Wiltold Owski
as Man Watching TV
Krzysztos Tlotka
as Man Watching TV
Tomek Glowacki
as Man Watching TV
Crew
Director
- John Carney
Producer
- Martina Niland
Reviews
lmao7
Not done with the 1st month of 2017 when I saw this but this is officially my first new fave movie to watch this year. It has been on my ‘films to watch’ list for like a while after watching **Sing Street** - another **John Carney** film. And i did like his other film **Begin Again **(love the song Lost Stars). All have similar themes…not just music, but the process of making music.
**I love the simplicity of Once** - feels more raw and natural (than Sing Steet and Begin Again). And the songs are really beautiful. I have been listening to it everyday. My top 2 favorite scenes are: Falling Slowly (video above) at the music shop - instant connection through music! Doesn’t have to be a love story between the guy and the girl, just relate and connect for their love for making music. Second one would be the recording studio scene: When Your Mind’s Made Up. I love how the guy who’s ‘pressing the buttons’ was like meh just here to work with whatever wannabee band, and then when they start to play he’s like…what is this? this is actually good - support! And from there it’s just something magical for all of them, that you know these musicians are in their element and will remember it for the rest of their lives, doing something that they are all so passionate about. Everyone inside the studio - just very endearing characters.
Well I love the whole film so all the scenes are great. My favorite emotional song, Lies. It’s so powerful and heartbreaking, I think most relateable scene as well.
Just might replace Garden State as my background film to play when I am doing something else, just to hear it. A must see for musicians and just music lovers like me.
Feb 8, 2017
sykobanana
Perfection and I fell slowly in love with this film.
Challenge: Make an Indy hit with a tiny budget; "no name" actors in there; and use actors with no or limited acting experience. Have the plot be basic (Guy meets Girl early on), but realistic. Keep the characters relatable and add humour. Now make it a musical with at least 10 tracks. Oh and also, make sure an Oscar is won.
THIS is just what this movie achieved and Im blown away by it.
Hansard and Irglova are so believable in their roles, I didnt know they had such limited act experience. And the music they make together is glorious, heart felt and raw.
This is the modern-day musical that people should watch. Not the over-rated Hamilton, or self indulgent La-La Land, or the tragedy that is Cats.
This is just: love, music, people.
And I love it (despite the tears it brings).
(And reading up on this, I teared up again - There is a moment towards the end of the movie when Guy asks Girl whether she loves her husband. Girl responds, "No. I love you" (her response is unsubtitled), so Guy does not understand her).
If you have a heart and love being moved by movies, watch this. WATCH THIS ASAP.
May 15, 2021
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Once examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director John Carney brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Once took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 335 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Once shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bob Marley: The Making of a Legend, which focuses more on action than character development, Once subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Riders and Band Aid explore similar territory, Once stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 23, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 25m
- Budget: $160,000
- Revenue: $20,710,513
Where to Watch
