R&B Like You've Never Heard It Before

Rating: 9/10 (15 May 2005)

I've always enjoyed Irish movies. This is one of my favorites because it shows so much spirit and determination to succeed in a depraved area. It gave a group of kids something to put their heart and soul into.
The Committments was filmed, not in lush greenery but in Dublin, the "ghetto" area where a group of struggling Irish youth endeavor to bring their love of R&B music to the public eye. Young Jimmy Rabbitt, the promoter, manager and band leader auditions singers & musicians until he finds the perfect ones for his group. The auditions are hilarious - held in the home of his parents. Jimmy's father is a devout Elvis fan.
The practice sessions are typical of new bands learning the music and trying to get along with one another which is not always the case - very realistic. Jimmy manages to secure a has been professional trumpet player who also considers himself a playboy and manages to successfully woo all three girl members of the band. Jimmy manages to get himself and the band in plenty of trouble throughout the movie.
There's comedy, music, drama, and plenty of SOUL all thrown in together.