Once

I struggles a bit to find a way to start writing about my latest movie experience. It is 6:21am. I've not slept. I stayed up. I don't normally sleep much, but this time it's different. I've been kept up researching and reading and listening to music. Might sound like a normal thing to do, but not when you know that my research and listening have all revolved around this movie...ONCE.

Glen Hansard
Marketa Irglova
The Frames

These three names were unknown to me prior to today. Actually, until a couple of hours ago. Not now though. And never again will they be.

If you're looking for a movie experience with loads of special effects, brilliant direction and cinematography, and high budgets, then this is not for you. This is an independant, low budget production. That said, it is ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!

The pleasure I experienced in this filmed is not one that I am familiar with. If I was to pinpoint a single element of the film and say that was it, I would have no trouble whatsoever. It is very clear to me. Once is, by far, our generation's BEST musical. It is a modern day musical in which the music blends in seamlessly with the acting and the script. Unlike most musicals where the music can sometimes almost be an intrusion, ONCE does it brilliantly.

This is a film I strongly recommend to all of you who love independant cinema, independant music, and if you're looking for some inspiration and a story about going after what you want and seeking motivation for chasing your dreams, this isn't a bad one for that!

Definitely on my radar now also are the musicians behind the brilliant songs of the film. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. I can't give them enough credit for the beautiful job done on this film. But having now listened to a bit of their music, I know that it was not a one-hit wonder type effort. These are really talented musicians and, in a world dominated commercially by the Britneys, Christinas and Justins, it is a shame that talents like these remain in the smalltime.

My next objective? Hopefully get in touch with them for some performances in the Middle East! Anyone interested in seeing them here? Has anyone seen this film or heard of them prior to this post?

The Return of Guy Ritchie....

As far as I'm concerned, Guy Ritchie disappeared in 2000 after he did snatch. Whatever attempt he had between then and now at creating what resembled film was a complete and utter disappointment....UNITL THIS!!!!

In my opinion, Rocknrolla is a masterpiece. Many will disagree, including my good friend Matthew Beckner who liked the film, but wasn't as impressed as I was. True the film is not flawless, I'm sue you'll all agree, but in the end the result was pure adrenaline and entertainment with a bit of laughter thrown in for good measure...

I don't want to ruin the film for anyone, but my personal opinion is this:

1) The film presents a unique insight into the organized underworld in London...
2) The film's cast does a brilliant job, though I'd have to agree with most critics, not all characters were necessary for the film's success. Some could have been done without (like for example Mumbles)
3) I liked the soundtrack a lot and the quality of the sound in the film was astounding
4) The film has some very interesting scenes
5) Cinematography leaves a lot to be desired - Guy needs to fix that on the next one, The Real Rocknrolla!!!!
6) The film could have had a hotter girl in it!
7) Let me know, once you've seen it, which seen in the film is one of the worst scenes ever captured on camera.

Overall....a definite one to watch and be entertained by. If you're going in expecting a Good Will Hunting type film, don't bother. If you think you're going to see something that's better than Lock Stock or Snatch, then save your time and money. But if you want to go have a good laugh and enjoy a well written script with some creative direction and brilliant lines (Some of the best lines I've ever heard) then go watch this film without hesitation!

Let me know your thoughts...until then...adios amigos