Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova may not be established actors, but with "Once," they have made one of the best movies I've ever seen. It's one of those "the beauty is in the simplicity" films -- Guy meets Girl; they're afraid to get too close but they're both lonely; they share a common love of music; they slowly form their relationship while exploring various scenes in Ireland.No twists, surprises or car chases -- not even a kiss, dramatized or otherwise. Just a beautifully directed, beautifully shot view of a defining few days in these people's lives. The music isn't forced or dull -- the camera often stays on one person's face for upward of a couple minutes, showing far more character development than 10 minutes of dialog would provide.
Oh, and did I mention Ireland is absolutely gorgeous? I was planning a trip there in a year or two, but I may have to accelerate those plans. Especially if that means I may meet a down-on-his-luck street musician and record an album with him.
In short, SEE THIS MOVIE. Then listen to The Frames' "The Cost" and Hansard & Irglova's "The Swell Season" once a week for the rest of your life.
