Peneflix MOVIE REVIEWS BY PENEFLIX
Gamin, Keira Knightley, dashing, Mark Ruffalo with director John Carney (“Once”) in “Begin Again” bless audiences with a delectable, fluffy, scrumptiously sweet scenario; guileless, warm, mesmerizing meringue of a summer flick. Simply enchanting; delicious to watch, delightful to listen to (composer Gregg Alexander); two depressed souls, destined to meet and make musical magic.
“Dan” (Ruffalo) fired from his job as “song searcher”, slurping his angst away in aged bourbon; “Greta” (Knightley) neophyte song writer, dumped by hot- shot crooner “Dave” (sensational, if minimal performance by Adam Levine); electricity strikes when Dan hears Greta strumming and singing her version of doomed desirability. What transpires is a compelling, fetching, blossoming relationship; Dan and Greta make musical history by skipping the recording studio; strutting their ingenuity on New York’s streets, alleys, subways, Central Park; scintillating music, Ms. Knightley’s singing prowess, subtle, sprightly charm, natural nuances, offset by Ruffalo’s hunky, incredible, instinctive gifts as a performer, lend irresistible appeal and terrific fun to “Begin Again”.
Wonderfully refreshing, viewing a film without raunchy rutting scenes of sexual gratification; here are characters who like each other, and evolve into better people because of mutual growth, and tremendous respect; viewers are treated to a loving light-hearted scene where Greta and Dan stroll the sidewalks of New York with headphones and a single player, listening to each others favorite tunes; Herman Hupfeld’s “As Time Goes By” elicits a deluge of emotions, memories awakened from Van Winkle hibernation; loves lost, and reminiscences of “Casablanca”, an achingly poignant, archival masterpiece.
Buddha said “no matter how hard the past, you may always begin again”. Here is a cultivated example of the curative, transformative capabilities of new beginnings; doors, windows opening, releasing the stale; replaced by the breeze of rejuvenation.
FOUR STARS!!!!
Peneflix
Really enjoyed the film and so glad you did too. Other reviews didn’t get the fun and music!!! New York is always an amazing backdrop!!’
Don’t do Facebook so 3/12-4 stars.
I was booded by some but it was a taste of whimsy and I loved it. Thanks, P.
Great review, Peneflix! I was particularly touched by Steve ( James Gordon).
It was unclear from the credits whether Keira K. actually sang, credits said “voice coach for Ms Knightley, ‘did she?
Your are correct he was terrific! Keira did her own singing! It was a delightful, sunny, summer flick> thank you< P.