"You're only as strong as your next move."
Directed by John Carney
Produced by Anthony Bregman, Tobin Armbrust, Judd Apatow
Written by John Carney
Starring: Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Adam Levine, Hailee Steinfeld, James Corden
Music by Gregg Alexander
Cinematography: Yaron Orbach
Edited by Andrew Marcus
Production company: Sycamore Pictures, Exclusive Media, Likely Story, Apatow Productions
Distributed by The Weinstein Company
Release date: June 27, 2014(United States)
Running time: 104 minutes
Country: United States
Budget: $25,000,000
Box office: $36,315,770
"Begin Again" is a musical drama comedy film written and directed by John Carney. It tells the story of Dan Mulligan, who is a record label executive living in New York City. Things are going bad and then he lucks out. One night he decides to get drunk at a bar, he hears Gretta, a young and independent songwriter. Her music catches him and Dan makes a decision to be her producer. But they even can't imagine how many difficulties they will face.
- Keira Knightley as Gretta
- Mark Ruffalo as Dan Mulligan
- Adam Levine as Dave Kohl
- Hailee Steinfeld as Violet Mulligan
- James Corden as Steve
- CeeLo Green as Trouble Gum
- Mos Def as Saul
- Catherine Keener as Miriam
The director of this film, John Carney, is noted for his pictures such as "Once", "On the Edge" and "Zonad". The world premiere of "Begin Again" was at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival but it didn't win in any nominations, unfortunately. But let's have a closer look. Yes, this movie is pretty pop. However, it isn't have a simple storyline, there's a great depth of meaning in it.
Keira Knightley didn't as impress me as her Jules from "Bend It Like Beckham" or Elizabeth Swann from "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest". However, it doesn't mean that Gretta is a simple character. Her broken heart and might-have-been dreams hurt her and don't let go. These feelings and emotions are pretty understandable. Exactly for me. And then her life changes because of the long arm of coincidence. I can't explain why but Gretta inspired me and she still do. That summer I was quite upset. However then I saw "Begin Again". I haven't even thought before that films like that can help me or change something. But they can.
As for Mark Ruffalo, who is well-known for Bruce Banner from "The Avengers" or Dylan Rhodes from "Now You See Me", acted well. A man of middle age with an array of problems. It's truthful and realistic. And don't forget to hope against hope.
Adam Levine, one of my favourite singers, also took part in this project. It was a pleasant surprise. He coped with his role of a jumped-up musician. It was his debut film and Adam brought it off.
Hailee Steinfeld, Mattie Ross from "True Grit" and Juliet from "Romeo and Juliet", is a young actress worthy of being noted. But the role of Violet Mulligan didn't give her a chance to show herself. Yes, a teenager with typical problems is pretty interesting part however Hailee was too little in the film.
And some words about soundtracks. They're wonderful.
"Strangenesses"
Advantages
- Music
- Keira Knightley as Gretta
- Mark Ruffalo as Dan Mulligan
- Adam Levine as Dave Kohl
- Hailee Steinfeld as Violet Mulligan
Disadvantages
- That's a good romantic comedy which I may watch several times
"Strangenesses"
- To forgive cheating or not?
Clue Moments
- The concert
- The music band
"Begin Again" was shot in New York so the picture has its atmosphere. The atmosphere of freedom, hope and chances. And also disappointments.
Let's start with an idea of love. Love of music. No everybody wants to practise music and be famous at the same time. No. There're people who just take pleasure from writing music and performing. It's a real joy for them. But we also can find others who merely would like to be popular and make money. However fame is really changeable and you shouldn't completely depend on it. Some people can combine pleasure with work. This way everyone will feel happy as it's really wonderful when you're able to devote your life to your hobby or your passion. And money is a pure tool - nothing more. So don't make it the meaning of life.
As for relationships, the movie shows us two points of view about the second chance. If you're betrayed, think twice before giving a person other odds. But if someone decides to solve his or her problems and then comes back, it's possible to give him or her the second chance. Trusting to people isn't always a bad idea. Sometimes it can change your life or outlooks at least. Or it will become an interesting experience.
The past rarely becomes the present, so it's very important to let go. I know how it's difficult and painful. But this skill will be useful in life. Moreover, if something or someone is yours, it will come back. I suppose so, this thought fill me with enthusiasm.
And don't refuse your dream. Never. Even if you don't have money or vital forces. Maybe someday you'll get lucky, who knows?
- Adam Levine - A Higher Place
- Adam Levine - Lost Stars (Into the Night Mix)
- Adam Levine - Lost Stars
- Adam Levine - No One Else Like You
- Cee-Lo - Horny
- Cee-Lo - Women of the World (Go On Strike!)
- Cessyl Orchestra - Did It Ever Cross Your Mind (Demo Version)
- Cessyl Orchestra - Intimidated By You
- Cessyl Orchestra - Into the Trance
- Cessyl Orchestra - The Roof Is Broke (Demo Mix)
- Keira Knightley - A Step You Can’t Take Back
- Keira Knightley - Coming Up Roses
- Keira Knightley - Like a Fool
- Keira Knightley - Lost Stars
- Keira Knightley - Tell Me If You Wanna Go Home
- Keira Knightley feat. Hailee Steinfeld - Tell Me If You Wanna Go Home (Rooftop Mix)
Quotations
* * *
Greta: I just think you have let your troubles get in the way of your entire life.
* * *
Dan: Musicians for the most part are monosyllabic teenagers who really don't have a whole lot to say.
* * *
Dan: I'm a producer because I don't play bass, baby.
* * *
Steve: The world's first Jag mobile recording studio is done!
* * *
You may see the trailer here.
You may see the trailer here.
Plot: 7/10
Entertainment: 7/10
Acting: 6/10
Originality: 6/10
Music and Sound: 9/10
7/10
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