Rewriteable Content: Suggested Viewing

Today the Content would like to continue with its summer movie recommendations with a film whose story finds its feet planted firmly in music. Once is being described as a modern musical where the songs are integrated seamlessly into the film without sensational dance numbers and over the top costumes. The film’s premise is simple where the relationship between the characters develops through their collaboration in song writing and recording. Throughout the film the musical numbers are displayed more as a progression of the songwriting process and the pair’s collaboration.

The film is somewhat a reflection of the real lives of the film’s actors, played by Glen Hansard (of Irish rock mainstay the Frames) and Czech songwriter Marketa Irglova who previously had met to write songs for the soundtrack. With writing and directing credits going to previous Frames bassist, John Carney, and some of the film’s scenes being filmed in Hansard’s flat, the film takes on a representation of the real life of all those involved in the film’s production.

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are now on a promotional tour for Once playing songs as the Swell Season. The couple is doing a taping of the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson tomorrow followed up with a gig at the El Rey.

Once is playing in selected theaters. (Fandango)