Wow

Rating: 10/10 (26 December 2007)

I came across "Once" at Blockbuster while browsing through the selections, and vaguely remembered reading some positive reviews on it. So, "28 Weeks Later" went back on the shelf, and "Once" replaced it in my hand. I'd just seen "Halloween" (the 2007 version), and wasn't really in the mood for another gorefest immediately afterward anyway (not that there's anything wrong with a good gorefest). When I got home, I checked out the reviews for "Once" on IMDb, and though pleased to see the high rating, was also prepared for a bit of disappointment, as it is extremely rare that a well-rated movie meets my expectations. As the ending credits for "Once" rolled, I sat mesmerized. It was absolutely fantastic. The characters seemed so real that you almost felt like you were watching a documentary. This movie is not a musical in the usual sense, as the characters do not sing dialog to one another, but it is certainly full of music. The story is not a unique one, but it is well-told and very believable. While most out here obviously enjoyed the film, I do think those who do not like the music may not, so there will definitely be an audience of detractors. Most of us, apparently, are not among them, and I urge you to find out where you stand for yourself. If you hate the song in the music store (which happens early-on), then you may not want to sit through the rest of "Once," but if that song leaves you wanting to hear more, you're in for a real treat.