Begin Again 2014 (Movie Review)

Dir: John Carney
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Keira Knightley, Adam Levine
Dur: 1 hr 44 mins
Genre: Romance, Music
Rating: 4/5
PG: Lot of swearing.

Music is the language of the soul. It allows the soul to express itself freely and gives it an opportunity to heal. Begin Again reflects this miraculous power of music. There are many young music lovers and musicians who dream of becoming rockstars and popstars, with the impression that it’s all about fame, excitement and money. This film shows us the less glamorous side of the music industry.

Gretta (Keira Knightely) is sour in New York because she has just broken up with her popstar-boyfriend, Dave Kohl (Adam Levine). She’s finding her feet with a wannabe musician friend who ekes a living with music. One night she sings a song in a bar and is contacted by a famous music producer, Dan (Mark Ruffalo), who has seen better days. She hesitates and he coaxes until finally she makes up her mind to go ahead. The two begin a journey of music, friendship and reconciliation, leading up to many new beginnings. Dan is a famous producer whose life has taken a tumble after his divorce. He has a teenage daughter from who he has become estranged and a job that is barely his anymore. Gretta is also smarting from her break-up and finds in Dan a friend and support. The two complement one another and help one another begin again. Their journey to produce an album sees them accomplish a lot more than just music. Friends, relationships, dreams, family-all form part of the wonder of music.


The film is delightful. It takes its own time but sings a strong message. Music-lovers will find it amusing. The songs during the film are pretty good but the story behind each song is better. The film has a lot to say and stays true to facts. Those with musical ambitions can draw inspiration from the film, others can enjoy a good story that is well told.     

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