Sing Street

Rating: 9/10 (15 December 2016)

An amateur music band in Dublin during an economic crisis? Am I talking about a remake of The Commitments? No, Sing Street isn't a remake, but the influence of that masterpiece is noticed in various aspects... something which isn't bad at all. Sing Street shares cultural elements with The Commitments, but it immediately finds its own personality, besides of adopting an enough different musical style in order to avoid unfair comparisons to any other "garage band" tale. I enjoyed the multiple sub-plots of Sing Street very much; and even though they don't belong to my favorite type of music, I certainly appreciated the ingenuity and talent behind the original songs played by the characters. The historical period (the '80s), geographic setting and socio-economic environment justify the strong influence of the "new romantics" which used to be popular during that decade, bringing songs which imitate the style of Duran Duran, Joy Division, The Cure and Spandau Ballet, with some North American references such as Hall & Oates; but, independently from their origin, I found all the songs excellent (I still have "The Riddle of the Model" spinning around in my head). The whole cast makes a brilliant work, highlighting Lucy Boynton, who perfectly transmits sweetness and charm as the "muse" of band, and Jack Reynor, who steals every scene he's in (besides, I was left with wishes to see a film exclusively focused on his character). In conclusion, Sing Street tells a compelling and honest story which employs music as a genuine complement of the narrative, instead of being a simple ornament. My favorite movie from director John Carney keeps being Once, but Sing Street still deserves an enthusiastic recommendation, specially to those of us who once played (badly) in the garage (or roof) of some house, making more noise than "music". Sing Street understands the magic of those moments, and it accompanies them with a subtle echo of social commentary, bringing a fascinating and memorable experience which combines nostalgia and raw reality. And a huge love for the music.