Feel good movie of the year

Rating: 8/10 (4 October 2014)

Very pleasant film starring Keira Knightley as Gretta, a Briton leaving in New York. She has just separated from her rock star boyfriend and writing partner Dave (Adam Levine), and is about to return to London, when she is asked to perform impromptu by his friend Steve (James Corden) in a club. Down and out producer Dan (Mark Ruffalo) happens to be there at the time, and is entranced by her performance and tries to sign her for a record label headed by his ex partner Saul (nicely played by rap artist Mos Def). She is initially reluctant but finally goes along.
Though marketed as a romantic comedy, it hardly follows the "boy meets girl" formula. Knightley sings many songs in the movie, not all memorable (I did like "A step you can't take back" which is included in the movie's best scene, as Dan imagines Gretta's acoustic performance accompanied by a full rock orchestra). Knightley usual charm is the major driver of this feel-good movie, though most performances are fine. Also with Catherine Keener and Hailee Stanfield, as Dan's ex wife and daughter. There is a great scene after the final credits you should wait for.