Once is a gentle Irish film that has an emotional punch. Even though it was made on a limited budget, it employs a narrative approach that feels like it’s telling the story our lives. It looks like a documentary at first or maybe a long MTV movie. Starting with music, the melodies almost seems to be a central character in the story. This film describes how two people pursue music, each other, and their dreams.
Music is one of the biggest highlights of the movie. It always appears at the right time creating a very romantic atmosphere. It is a powerful medium that eliminates the barriers between two strangers. They unite in notes and harmonies. They use music to talk about life. It supports them.
Guy and girl meet each other through music. The main female lead (not given a name) has to deal with a marriage that is disarray and that has left her with a lot of challenges. Nevertheless, she has an especially cheerful determined character. Playing with other musicians helps her and the guy to understand each other and connect on an emotional level. All the while, love gradually grows between them. However, they are very good at maintaining a safe distance while encouraging each other musically. It is impossible for them to express how they really feel about each other.
Music for the girl is a dream that is an escape from the pressure around her. The main characters are not the typical prince and princess type. They come from different backgrounds and lead ordinary but quite different lives. They find themselves and their dreams in song. Music reveals their original pent-up talent and helps them to release it bravely so they can pursue those dreams.
This is a film about ordinary people. In life, we are strangers who usually pass each other unseen but sometimes our paths cross for a while. This story is about more than a simple encounter. It is a love story that reflects reality in all its complications. Life is not easy. We need to trust and support each other, encourage each other, and pursue our dreams.