Sing Street (English, 2016)

The casting almost fits the script like a glove to hand. Be it the estranged and fighting parents played by Aidan Gillen and Maria Doyle Kennedy, the idol brother Jack Reynor who has qualms with everything, the lost lead actors, Ferdia Walsh-Peelo and Lucy Boynton– all make it seem as if no one else could have played those roles any better. The supporting actors too play their parts suitably without overshadowing another’s space or scope.

The writing that embraces the awkwardness with which the band comes together is exquisite. The fact that music just unites unconnected young boys has been brought out wonderfully on screen without any embellishment. The usage of music and song as a symbol of rebellion is also well brought out.

Becky Bentham has come up with quirky and fun music that made headlines during the 80s. Keeping the sanctity intact, the music definitely adds more vibrancy into an otherwise plaincolor palette of Dublin.

John Carney is a blessing to the indie circuit as he brings two of the most mainstream departments of cinema together (story and music), giving them equal importance and individuality. An overdose or underplay certainly impacts the success and striking the balance is extremely a hard ball to tackle. The costumes and art direction do not shy away from sticking to the seemingly peculiar costumes and sets, that the music and story demand.

An impressive attempt by itself, the movie sets an extraordinary expectation and though it lives up to it, it might leave the audience wanting for more. The story ends with the closure of knots for main characters, but leaves those around them open ended.