A great love story with great music.

Rating: 10/10 (22 February 2009)

This movie captivated and impressed me in the greatest possible way. Why, you ask? Let me explain.
I have seen a lot of so-called "romance" movies and every time, especially with the movies that are coming out of Hollywood, I am completely underwhelmed: tidy, but generic plot lines, corny and ridiculous set-ups and obvious "acting" that, whether good or bad, seem artificial and "put-on".
What makes "Once" so endearing and appealing is the fact that the main leads seem so genuine and believable: their affection for each other is delivered so naturally and with such coy innocence that I was completely won over. It is as if though we are made privy to their lives in a moment in time in their lives, and we as an audience are emotionally enriched for it.
The main leads are obviously accomplished and talented musicians. To be sure, there are great songs on display in this movie. If you are not moved by some of the "musical" scenes in this movie, you are either pulse-dead or completely lack humanity. I hope to see these actors, hopefully together again, in the future.
10 out of 10.