Once
dir. John Carney · 2007
Plot
An unnamed guy is a Dublin guitarist/singer/songwriter who makes a living by fixing vacuum cleaners in his Dad's Hoover repair shop by day, and singing and playing for money on the Dublin streets by night. An unnamed girl is a Czech who plays piano when she gets a chance, and does odd jobs by day and takes care of her Mom and her daughter by night. Guy meets girl and they get to know each other as the girl helps the guy put together a demo disc that he can take to London in hope of landing a music contract. During the same several day period, the guy and the girl work through their past loves, and reveal their budding love for one another, through their songs.
Why watch
"Once" is a tender exploration of love and creativity, where two souls find solace and inspiration in each other amidst the backdrop of Dublin's streets. With its heartfelt music and poignant storytelling, this film captures the bittersweet essence of fleeting connections and the transformative power of art.
Talking points
- the role of music in storytelling
- the immigrant experience in contemporary society
- the nature of love and connection
- the impact of chance encounters on life paths