"Once" is a modern-day musical set in Dublin, Ireland, that tells the story of a street musician and a Czech immigrant who form an unlikely bond through their shared love of music. Their chance encounter leads to a week of songwriting, collaboration, and a deepening connection that changes both of their lives.
Plot Summary:
The film begins with the unnamed male protagonist, referred to as "Guy," performing on the streets of Dublin. He's struggling with his music, largely due to the heartbreak of a recent relationship.
One day, a young Czech woman, known as "Girl," approaches him, intrigued by his songs. She reveals her musical talents, playing classical music on her piano. The two bond over their shared passion, and she encourages him to pursue his music more seriously.
As they spend more time together, they collaborate on several songs, with "Girl" providing lyrics and piano accompaniment to "Guy's" guitar melodies. Their relationship deepens, but it's clear that both have unresolved issues from their past. "Guy" is still healing from his previous relationship, while "Girl" has a complicated family situation and a husband back in the Czech Republic.
The film culminates in the duo recording a demo of their songs, hoping to secure a record deal. While their musical journey reaches a satisfying conclusion, their personal relationship remains open-ended, leaving audiences to ponder the nature of love, connection, and the fleeting moments that shape our lives.
Cast and Crew
Main Cast:
- Glen Hansard as "Guy": A heartbroken street musician with a passion for songwriting.
- Markéta Irglová as "Girl": A Czech immigrant with a complicated past and a talent for the piano.
Director:
- John Carney
Where to Stream
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United States
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Australia
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Great Britain
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Canada
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Germany
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Spain
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
France
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
Brazil
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Production Details
Production Company:
- Samson Films, Bord Scannán na hÉireann/Irish Film Board, RTÉ, Enda Walsh
Filming Locations:
- Dublin, Ireland
Budget and Box Office:
- Budget: Estimated $150,000
- Box Office: Over $20 million worldwide
Reception
Critical Reception:
"Once" was met with widespread acclaim from critics, who praised its raw emotion, authentic performances, and heartfelt music. Many lauded it as a refreshing take on the musical genre, with its indie sensibilities and genuine portrayal of human connection.
Audience Reception:
Audiences around the world resonated with the film's universal themes of love, heartbreak, and the transformative power of music. Its songs, especially the Oscar-winning "Falling Slowly," became anthems for many, encapsulating the film's spirit and emotion.
Awards and Nominations:
The film received numerous accolades, most notably winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly." It also garnered nominations and wins at various film festivals and award ceremonies, solidifying its place as a modern classic.