Begin Again

Rating: 10/10 (3 March 2016)

Never before in the entirety of my life have I ever advocated for a romantic drama movie let alone a musical drama. But I guess an exception had to be made when I came across Begin Again.
The film begins with a shot in the bar of Gretta (Keira Knightely) reluctantly performing at an open-mic night. Gretta an independent and tough singer-songwriter who's coping from a recent heart break catches the eye of Dan (Mark Ruffalo) an out of work record label executive.
A chance occurrence brings together these two lost souls for a musical journey that takes them through every street and corner of the beautiful New York City. Director Carney does an exceptional job in creating a wonderful medley that lasts throughout the film.
In one the scenes Dan says, "One of the most banal scenes is suddenly invested with so much meaning! All these banalities - They're suddenly turned into these... these beautiful, effervescent pearls. From Music.".
Well that's exactly what happens. Carney takes a simple scene and brilliantly transforms it into a melodious performance.
From the very beginning of the movie you'll find yourself tapping to every tune and singing to every lyrical poetry. As you take this wonderful joy ride you'll find yourself completely immersed in the lives of these two damaged characters and their journey to help each other out of their despair. Carney takes you on an emotional ride which is surprisingly uncliched.
Ruffalo plays the character of a middle aged train wreck in the most subtle way possible. Knightley's stunningly soulful voice will bring a definite smile on your face. There is an unusually surprising chemistry between the two which makes this journey even more creative.
To be very honest I didn't have any expectation and unsurprisingly thought it would be your next door clichéd drama. But obviously I was proved wrong. Carny uses your basic girl meets boy formula but then intelligently deviates away from it to give you a creative musical drama. I realise I may sound like a broken record, but it's simply to emphasize the impact this had on me. So whoever made it to the end this review do check out the movie and let me know what you think. Until next time.