Begin Again Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A washed-up music exec and a heartbroken singer decide to record an album guerrilla-style around NYC, proving that you can make catchy tunes even if you’re just using trash cans and a disgruntled violinist.

🍿 Begin Again: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Gretta’s Heartbreak and Dan’s Downfall

Gretta, a talented songwriter, moves to New York with her boyfriend Dave, who lands a major record deal. As Dave’s fame rises, he becomes distant and unfaithful, leaving Gretta heartbroken and alone in a new city. Simultaneously, Dan, a once-successful record executive, is fired from his own label and struggles with his relationship with his estranged wife and daughter.

A Chance Encounter and a Unique Collaboration

Destiny intervenes when Dan stumbles upon Gretta performing in a local bar. Captivated by her raw talent, Dan envisions a unique way to record an album together – live, in various iconic locations throughout New York City. They embark on a journey to create authentic music, drawing inspiration from the city itself.

Building an Album and Rebuilding Lives

As Dan and Gretta work on the album, they form a deep bond, supporting each other through personal struggles. Gretta helps Dan reconnect with his daughter, Violet, who joins the band as a guitarist. The unconventional recording process allows them to express their creativity freely, creating a soundtrack that resonates with their experiences.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Gretta (Keira Knightley): A talented but heartbroken songwriter who embarks on a unique musical journey in New York City.
• Dan (Mark Ruffalo): A down-on-his-luck record executive who rediscovers his passion for music and helps Gretta launch her career.
• Dave (Adam Levine): Gretta’s ex-boyfriend and rising rock star, who struggles with fame and integrity.
• Violet (Hailee Steinfeld): Dan’s estranged daughter who reconnects with her father through music and becomes part of Gretta’s band.
• Steve (James Corden): Gretta’s supportive best friend and street performer who assists in recording her album.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Dan: “You can tell a lot about a person by what’s on their playlist.” – Dan emphasizes the personal connection music provides.
• Gretta: “That’s what’s worrying me.” – Gretta responds to Dan’s observation above, hinting she shares intimate feelings via her musical selections.
• Dan: “These are just banal scenes. They’re suddenly turned into these beautiful, effervescent pearls.” – Dan expresses his appreciation for what music can create out of everyday experiences.
• Gretta: “Are you just trying to get into my pants?” – Gretta asks this after Dan suggests that he’d like to work with her.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $8,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $16,170,632
• Worldwide Gross: $105,539,577

💥 Begin Again Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Begin Again! It’s one of those movies that just makes you feel good. The music is fantastic, and the story of two lost souls finding each other and rediscovering their passion for music is so heartwarming. I especially loved the scene where they’re recording ‘Lost Stars’ on the rooftop – it gave me chills! It’s a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come from unexpected places. Plus, Keira Knightley can sing! Who knew? Definitely a must-watch for music lovers.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of music-themed movies.”
  • “Viewers who appreciate stories about personal growth and second chances.”
  • “Audiences who enjoy heartwarming dramas with a touch of romance.”
  • “People who love films set in New York City.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Infidelity and relationship issues.”
  • “Moderate language.”
  • “Depiction of alcohol use.”
  • “Some thematic elements related to career struggles.”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Begin Again is a charming, feel-good movie elevated by its music and strong performances. Knightley and Ruffalo share a delightful chemistry, and the film’s soundtrack is undeniably catchy. It’s a refreshing take on the music industry, focusing on the passion for creating music rather than the pursuit of fame.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “While predictable at times, Begin Again boasts a delightful story about second chances and the power of music. The film is beautifully shot, capturing the vibrant energy of New York City. Knightley’s performance is surprisingly heartfelt, and Levine proves he has some acting chops.
• Rolling Stone: “Begin Again is a pleasant and uplifting film with a sweet story and catchy tunes but ultimately lacks depth. Keira Knightley is appealing as the struggling singer-songwriter, and Mark Ruffalo brings his signature charm to the role of the washed-up music executive. Adam Levine’s acting is surprisingly good, and the film’s soundtrack is enjoyable, but the story feels formulaic.

Audience Reactions

The raw, authentic feel of recording music in real NYC locations was so cool!: Viewers loved the movie’s soundtrack and the unconventional recording process.

Keira Knightley’s singing voice was such a pleasant surprise!: Many were impressed by Knightley’s vocal performance and her chemistry with Mark Ruffalo.

Overall Consensus: Begin Again is a feel-good movie with a charming story and catchy soundtrack, though some find it predictable. Performances by Knightley and Ruffalo are widely praised.

Awards

1. Hollywood Film Awards (Hollywood Song Award)- 2014

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The apartment that is given to Gretta (Keira Knightley) and Dave (Adam Levine) in New York City is the real house of Levine and his wife, Behati Prinsloo.”
• “Director John Carney also directed ‘Once’ and ‘Sing Street’, both known for their emphasis on music and character-driven stories.”
• “Many scenes were filmed guerilla-style, capturing the spontaneity of recording music in public spaces throughout New York City.”
• “Keira Knightley performed her own singing in the film, marking a departure from her previous roles.”

🖥️ How to Watch Begin Again?

Begin Again is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu, where you can rent or buy the movie. Check your local cable provider or streaming service as availability may vary by region. Music lovers and fans of feel-good dramas can easily access this heartwarming film.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Begin Again, you might like these similar films:

• Once (2007): Both films are directed by John Carney and feature original music as a central element, focusing on the connection between two musicians.
• Sing Street (2016): Another music-driven film by John Carney, this movie follows a group of teenagers forming a band in 1980s Dublin.
• A Star is Born (2018): Similar theme of a seasoned musician helping a rising star find their voice, exploring the challenges of fame and artistic integrity.
• God Help the Girl (2014): Musical about a young woman who overcomes mental health issues by forming a band with two friends.
• La La Land (2016): A modern musical about artists pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles, dealing with the balance between love and career.

🛒 Begin Again Related Products

• Begin Again (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [Deluxe Edition]: The complete soundtrack featuring all the original songs from the movie, including Adam Levine’s version of ‘Lost Stars’. A must-have for any fan.
• Begin Again [Blu-ray]: Own the physical copy of Begin Again on Blu-ray. Enjoy the film in high definition, with bonus features including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew.
• Begin Again Movie Poster: A high-quality print of the official Begin Again movie poster, perfect for decorating a bedroom, office, or home theater.
• Lost Stars Sheet Music: Officially licensed sheet music for Lost Stars, the hit song from Begin Again. Play the song yourself by purchasing the music sheet.

🎧 Soundtrack

Begin Again features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Lost Stars” – performed by Adam Levine
• “Like a Fool” – performed by Keira Knightley
• “Tell Me If You Wanna Go Home” – performed by Keira Knightley
• “A Step You Can’t Take Back” – performed by Keira Knightley

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Taylor Swift – Begin Again

Relive the feels of the movie with Taylor Swift’s iconic song, ‘Begin Again’, and immerse yourself in the emotional journey of the characters.

Adam Levine – Lost Stars

Discover the emotional depth of the movie through Adam Levine’s lyrical masterpiece, ‘Lost Stars’, and witness why it was nominated for an Academy Award.

Maroon 5 – Lost Stars

Maroon 5’s cover of ‘Lost Stars’ offers a fresh take on the movie’s soundtrack, proving that the song’s evocative message resonates across genres.

✨ Rate