Begin Again (2014)

Plot summary (story synopsis): Talented songwriter Greta (Keira Knightley - Pirates of the Caribbean, King Arthur, Atonement, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit) doesn't take her work seriously, preferring to live in the shadow of her famous singer boyfriend Dave (Adam Levine - Maroon 5's lead singer). They break up after she finds out that he had an affair.

Meanwhile, formerly-successful music producer Dan (Mark Ruffalo - Bruce Banner in The Avengers) is fired from the recording label that he started. He is divorced from Miriam (Catherine Keener - Being John Malkovich, Captain Phillips) and living in a rundown apartment.

He stumbles across Greta singing one of her songs in a bar and is impressed by her talent. He tries to sign her up, but his former boss Saul (Mos Def - 16 Blocks, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy) back at his old label wants them to record a demo tape first.

Low on cash, Dan decides to use volunteer musicians, and record along New York's streets to make use of their ambient sound instead of renting a studio. Over the course of a few days, Dan and Greta get to know each other better as they record the demo album, roping in Dan's daughter Violet (Hailee Steinfeld - True Grit, Ender's Game, 3 Days to Kill) to play guitar.

***

Begin Again is an effective mix of Before Sunrise and The Commitments. It's a slow but entertaining show-don't-tell love story with some decent music, shot against the backdrop of the less glamorous part of New York. A part that isn't often seen in movies. We see the cosy backstreets New York, with the Empire State Building being the only major landmark shown.

The story sounds a lot like Once, writer/director John Carney's 2006 movie, which I haven't seen.

Mark Ruffalo is convincing as the down-and-out producer. Keira Knightley is even better as the sweet but tough, perceptive and talented songwriter. This is one of her best roles. I haven't been a fan in the past - she's competent, but there's something missing. However this movie might have changed my mind. The supporting cast, as might be expected from their past work, is excellent.

The chemistry between the two leads, works. John Carney's script allows them to believably get to know each other. Their interactions don't feel fake or forced. Most of it is low-key. There are a few dramatic moments but these aren't melodramatic or overwrought.

It's less "talkie" than Before Sunrise, closer to Lost in Translation's casual unhurried approach. It lacks Lost in Translation's mesmerizing dreamlike atmosphere but it's still a pleasant ride for the audience.

Like Before Sunrise, the ending isn't a conventionally romantic one and might not satisfy the general public that likes neat endings. Hopefully, like Before Sunrise, there will be a sequel too.