Quick Info
This one’s a hidden gem from John Carney, set in New York’s indie music scene. It follows Gretta (Keira Knightley), a songwriter, and Dan (Mark Ruffalo), a down-on-his-luck record exec. After an impromptu performance, they set out to record an album all over the city — literally, on rooftops, alleys, and parks. It’s about new beginnings, both creatively and emotionally, rather than the usual “make it big” narrative.
What really charmed me is the low-key chemistry between Knightley and Ruffalo. It never tries to force a romance but lets their partnership develop as a kind of friendship/mentorship. Knightley’s singing isn’t powerhouse, but it’s honest and works for the character. Adam Levine even turns up as Gretta’s rock star ex, which is fun if a little on-the-nose with the “musician boyfriend” trope.
Some of the movie’s best moments are its musical interludes—the city becomes this ever-present backdrop, almost like another character. The way they record songs guerrilla-style around New York gives the film a breezy, spontaneous feel. There’s one rooftop number at sunset that’s especially sweet, making you appreciate the raw, imperfect beauty of street music.
It does drag here and there, especially in the middle when the personal dramas get a bit too predictable. Some characters (like Ruffalo’s family) could have used more fleshing out, and a couple of subplots don’t go anywhere. But it never gets bogged down for long—there’s always a new song or a quirky recording spot just around the corner.
You would enjoy this if you’re into music movies that aren’t about superstars, but about creative people making stuff that matters to them. It’s got enough feel-good energy to make you smile, but with an indie sincerity that keeps it from turning cheesy. Perfect for fans of films like “Once” or small-scale music stories.
