Heart-warming movie with a couple of minor problems

Rating: 8/10 (7 December 2016)

Conor is 15, his parents have a rocky relationship and money problems, his older brother Brendan is a college drop-out, his sister has no reason to be in the movie.
Conor is sent to a Catholic school to save money and there he sees and falls in love with Raphina, an older girl. Raphina is supposed to be 16, but the actress playing her is 22, while the actor playing Conor is actually 15 and 7 years is a wide age gap. Skipping the age problem, to win over Raphina, Conor starts a school band with a motley crew just to ask her to appear in his band's videos.
This is Dublin in 1985, Duran Duran are at the height of their power and the video for the their song Rio is Conor first - but not last - inspiration.
It is hilarious to see Conor during his creative process and how his clothes and music are influenced by several bands (The Smiths, Spandau Ballet, etc...) It is easy to relate to that period in life when we are not sure about ourselves and try out different images.
Conor writes some good songs in different styles and experiences the pains of growing up when his parents separate, but at least he can count on Brendan to give advice about music and women.
The core of the plot is the love story, narrated via the original songs and developed in a sweet way. Peppered with humor, excellent costumes and engaging characters, the movie will make most of those who grew up in the 80s feel nostalgic.
Just a couple of minor problems for me: even if U2 were an Irish band exploding in mid 80s, they are not even acknowledged (maybe for copyright reasons?). Finally, unless one is an hopeless romantic or still a teenager, it is difficult not to imagine much disappointment in Conor and Raphina's future.