SummaryA modern day musical set on the streets of Dublin. Featuring Glen Hansard from the Irish band "The Frames," the film tells the story of a street musician and a Czech immigrant during an eventful week as they write, rehearse and record songs that reveal their unique love story. (Fox Searchlight)
Directed By:John Carney
Written By:John Carney
Once
Metascore
Universal Acclaim
90
User score
Generally Favorable
8.0
My Score
Drag or tap to give a rating
Hover and click to give a rating
Not available in your country?
ExpressVPN
Get 3 Extra months free
$6.67/mth
Top Cast
Metascore
Universal Acclaim
100% Positive
33 Reviews
33 Reviews
0% Mixed
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
100
Once is the kind of film I've been pestered about ever since I started reviewing again. People couldn't quite describe it, but they said I had to see it. I had to. Well, I did. They were right.
100
The music is so rich and completely satisfying and the characters so appealing Once makes us believe that this is all happening right in front of our eyes. We fall for each of these young people at the precise moment they are falling for each other, and what could be better than that?
User score
Generally Favorable
83% Positive
141 Ratings
141 Ratings
12% Mixed
21 Ratings
21 Ratings
4% Negative
7 Ratings
7 Ratings
Nov 21, 2020
10
beautiful, poignant portrayal by Girl (Marke’ta) and terrific music. A soul affirming/restoring experience.
Jan 25, 2019
10
This movie is just so brilliant. I love the ending and it really gives inspiration to other aspiring musicians. One of the best film I've ever watched.
91
There's not a false moment within the film's 88-minute running time, nor many that could be done any better.
88
Once is a film for anyone who has ever been transported by the power and passion of music.
83
The film drags a bit and Irglova's inexperience as an actor sometimes leaves her costars in the lurch. But it's a sweet little film just the same.
75
This simple story of a Guy and a Girl and their music is very appealing.
70
A film of limited production values, a low-quality picture and the occasional flubbed camera move. But it makes up for these flaws with sharp observations, compelling characters and a great collection of music.
May 21, 2015
10
A truly phenomenal film and it's beautifully written. I stumbled into seeing this movie when I walked into the living room and it was on the tv and Glen was performing "Say It To Me Now" during the opening credits, and I instantly fell in love with this film. It's the only musical that I've genuinely loved, and it's been my favorite movie for over 2 years now. Just about every scene is breathtakingly beautiful, the music is superb, and makes you feel like you get **** right into the ride.
Oct 5, 2015
6
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 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.
May 19, 2013
6
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.
Apr 13, 2011
5
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.
Aug 30, 2012
3
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 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!!!!!!!
Production Company:
- Samson Films
- Summit Entertainment
- Bord Scannán na hÉireann / The Irish Film Board
- Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ)
Release Date:May 16, 2007
Duration:1 h 25 m
Rating:R
Tagline:How often do you find the right person?
Awards
Academy Awards, USA
• 1 Win & 1 Nomination
Chicago Film Critics Association Awards
• 1 Win & 4 Nominations
Online Film & Television Association
• 2 Wins & 3 Nominations
