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Review: Begin Again

By Diana Cole, Sandy Springs Dunwoody Macaroni Kid Publisher July 4, 2014
The other night, I was invited to see the new movie: Begin Again.  All of my opinions are my own.

The latest film from writer-director John Carney (ONCE), Begin Again is a soul-stirring comedy about what happens when lost souls meet and make beautiful music together. Gretta (Keira Knightley) and her long-time boyfriend Dave (Adam Levine) are college sweethearts and songwriting partners who decamp for New York when he lands a deal with a major label. But the trappings of his new-found fame soon tempt Dave to stray, and a reeling, lovelorn Gretta is left on her own. Her world takes a turn for the better when Dan (Mark Ruffalo), a disgraced record-label exec, stumbles upon her performing on an East Village stage and is immediately captivated by her raw talent. From this chance encounter emerges an enchanting portrait of a mutually transformative collaboration, set to the soundtrack of a summer in New York City. Begin Again is produced and financed by Exclusive Media and produced by Anthony Bregman, Tobin Armbrust and Judd Apatow.

First, let’s just say that Adam Levine is in the movie!  Let me repeat, Adam Levine is in the movie.  My friend who came with me was amazed that Keira Knightley can sing well.   I actually pre-ordered the soundtrack.   It was that good. 

The story is that Gretta and Dave come to NYC after Dave signs a big record deal.  But fame gets to Dave’s head and they break up.   During the same time Dan, a famous record label exec had an awful day.   Gretta winds up in a bar during an open mic night.  So does Dan.   And the story of love, music, father daughter relationships, reconciliation, and independence, grows from there. 

New York City is another character.   The movie takes place in all different locations of the city.   Being from Northern New Jersey, I loved it.

Begin Again, is a great movie.  Perfect to see with a bunch of girls (remember Adam Levine) or with your significant other. 


Begin Again is now playing at AMC Northpoint in Alpharetta and Regal Tara.  Begin Again is also on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.