Sing Street (2016) Review

Rating: 9/10 (10 July 2016)

Sing Street is a 2016 drama written and directed by John Carney and starring Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor and Aidan Gillen.
Being directed and written by John Carney, the man behind movies like Once and Begin Away, it's clear from the start that music is going to be a huge part of the movie. The story is set in 80's Dublin and follows our main character, Conor Lalor, who, after he has a crush on a girl, he decides to start a band so he can win her over.
Even though the plot doesn't sound that original, it's the characters and the setting that really shine in this film. Ireland in the 1980's was a harsh place, with economic problems. Conor is forced to move to a school, where he faces bullying and teacher abuse. Also the state of his family is on thin ice, with his parents being on the verge of divorce.
All these things might make the movie seem a tad dramatic, but there is always a light shining on the main characters, mainly from the antics of the band members, how they struggle to film their music videos, and also the romance that's about to blossom between our protagonist and his crush.
Also, Conor receives a lot of support and training provided by his older brother, Brendan, portrayed by Jack Reynor. I was a bit skeptic about Reynor, knowing him from the last Transformers movie, but he really does a great job in portraying the older brother who refuses to conform, but is aware of the state of his family, and tries to take care of his brother at all costs.
Sing Street is guaranteed one of the best movies released this year, with great characters, epic music, a touch of drama and hints of comedy, with breakout stars like Ferdia Walsh-Peelo and Lucy Boynton. This movie is a must! Final Grade: 9 out of 10.