By Yohann Dcruz
“Not a single cell phone in sight, just kids living in the moment” was what I said as six Irish grade-schoolers walked into a shed to smoke away some of the movie’s considerably large cigarette budget.
Music and Escape in 1980s Dublin
Set in 1980’s Dublin, the movie follows Conor, whose interest in music comes as an escape from the troubles he faces at home, where his family is seemingly falling apart due to the shaky relationship of his parents as well as financial troubles. Being forced to transfer to a rough Christian boys’ school, he meets Raphina who lives in a group home nearby and invites her to take part in a music video for his band despite not being in one. With the help of his brother’s musical knowledge, and a group of newly-found friends, Conor jumps headfirst into the world of music, forming a band called Sing Street, a play on the name of their school Synge Street.
The members of the Sing Street band consider them futurists, and to quote Conor “not looking backwards, just forwards”.
Being set in the 80s, this is intentionally ironic, as any music composed in this era would instil that sense of nostalgia that Conor seems to want to avoid. The film’s soundtrack is the most powerful element of the film, featuring original music, composed by Danny Wilson frontman Gary Clark, that encapsulates the soul of 80’s pop and rock. Songs like “Drive It Like You Stole It”, and “The Riddle of the Model” are catchy, memorable, and pair well with the film’s story. The movie also features music from bands such as The Cure, The Clash, Hall & Oates, Spandau Ballet, etc.
Compelling Characters and Infectious Energy
There were quite a few aspects to this movie that caught and held my attention apart from the music. Its multitude of interesting characters seem only to have been inspired from real life. The cast consisted primarily of young talent, whose performance was phenomenal. The main character of Conor was played with an ideal mix of awkwardness, determination, and charm by actor Ferdia Walsh-Peelo who makes his film debut in Sing Street. The film’s dialogue is quite memorable and is filled with clever humour and sharp observations, whether it was Conor’s brother discussing the art of music videos, or fellow band member Eamon discussing his mysterious love of rabbits. This movie has a great deal of quotable lines, my favourite being “No women can be in love with a man who listens to Phil Collins’’ (which I plan on using in my daily life), and a beautiful review of the band Duran Duran.
It was quite enjoyable to see the interactions between characters. The Conor and Eamon writing duo reminds me of how I envision a younger collaboration between John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Nostalgia-Fueled Soundtracks
Sing Street reminds me a lot of Derry Girls. It has a very nostalgic appeal, interesting characters, and is also set against the backdrop of rough times in Ireland during the late 20th century, all while maintaining a mix of witty humour, and warmth. The production and design team did an amazing job in capturing the essence of a 1980’s Dublin.
The film isn’t a masterpiece, in fact the film was quite straightforward and followed a predictable trajectory, especially in its romance and coming of age elements. I did however find the characters quite deep and complex and were performed phenomenally by all the actors. The film score is a perfect caricature of 80s hits and is certain to instil a sense of nostalgia while watching it.
I can see it being a comfort film to many people, one that can get you through a bad day. I would definitely recommend watching it.
Rating — 7/10