Director: Nick August-Perna, Chris Dapkins, Carlo Mirabella-Davis
Starring: Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová
Distributed by: 7th Art Releasing
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes
Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars
I have been a big fan of The Swell Season and Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová for many years. The film “Once” was such a great music film if not one of the best music based films in recent days. Glen and Markéta’s folk music is so powerful and it digs so deep into their listeners hearts. Since “Once”, the duo have toured the world and released an album “Strict Joy” (which I listen to at least one a week). This documentary was filmed over three years following their Oscar win for “Once”. It really captured the spirit of their music and delivers a great insight into singer/songwriters lives.
This documentary does not just show the positive side, it is very intense and shows the real behind the scenes with ups and downs. It is a very honest and intimate look into this amazing band. We get to visit Glen and Markéta hometowns and get to meet their families. It is very up-close look at the duo. We also got to go on tour with them as they played various venues and meet their fans. I do not think I could have asked for more in a film.
There are many different way to shoot a documentary. With this film, it just feel so natural like we aren’t watching them more like re-living it with them. You really get to see how much Glen and Markéta doing what they do best. The music in the film is fantastic as we get a real behind the scenes look and very raw view. The whole demo feel from the music is so great and really captures the essence of The Swell Season. If you are fan of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová you NEED to see this movie. If you haven’t heard of them, pick up a copy of “Once” on DVD, “Strict Joy” on CD and then watch this film.