rocheinathens

I really liked this movie but it is no "Once." Still it touched my heart on many levels. The relationships and the music seem apropos for the these times. Good character development and good music. A much needed break from all the violence and chaos that seems to permeate modern cinema. Plus, it is shot in Dublin. It brought back memories of my visits to that fine music city. Bono's daughter is a strong actress with a bright future.

You may be annoyed with her at first...she is pretty unlikeable...but that is the point. It is about redemption, and starting your life again. We are never too old to learn new tricks.

Once again, IMDB user reviews are spot on! I never listen to the critics anymore. The bad reviews are obviously a backlash to personal opinions about the personal lives of Sean Penn and Mel Gibson, both of whom deliver Oscar-worthy performances. Actually, the entire cast, set and costume design, and script are all top notch. To successfully take the story of the creation of the Oxford American dictionary and make it this engaging is high art. This is the rare film that one can describe as intelligent.

The bottom line is that these critics need to separate the quality of the art from the the politics and personal lives of the creators. Woody Allen is experiencing the same thing but unfortunately, in my humble opinion, he is not delivering the goods.

On a final note, I found watching this film with the CC on ensured that I didn't miss one bit of dialogue! And you might need a dictionary and learn a few new words along the way.

I do not know why this film didn't receive a higher score as it is one of the most delightful films I have seen in this genre in a long time! Clever script, great set and costumes and wonderful acting, especially Tom Wilkensen. If you enjoy Downton Abbey, Marchant Ivory films, British based dramas with a bit of whimsy...you will love it. If you don't... then not so much....although one must have a cold heart not to like this film..