Conor is a 14 year old school boy growing up in 1980s Dublin. He copes with his stressful home life, where mum and dad aren’t getting on and there are money problems, by forming a band with his newly acquired friends. Being lead singer is also helpful in impressing a certain girl. Teenage angst is never far away as he manoeuvres between home, school and his musical dreams.
There are a couple of more poignant scenes concerning Conor and his older brother who never followed through with his own aspirations but who encourages Conor to do what he never did. Saying that, this is essentially a feel good film with great tunes. The more weighty themes never dominate nor distract from the fact that this is a lot of fun and lovingly made. It is Gregory’s Girl with music and the songs are catchy. You’ll be humming ‘Up‘ long after the film has finished and Adam Levine’s rendition of ‘Go Now’ in the final scene is perfect. A refreshing film.
Director: John Carney
Cast: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Aidan Gillen, Mariah Doyle Kennedy, Mark McKenna
PRIME | YOUTUBE
1 hour 46 min
