Everyone seems to literally be in ecstasy over this film and it's just won the Oscar for best song. It went down a storm at Sundance receiving a standing ovation - even my best friends rate it highly. So many people can't be wrong? True, it's amazing that it was made on such a small budget, but in my opinion it is basically naff, hackneyed and tiresome. Maybe it's the Marmite syndrome, maybe it's the Emperors new clothes. I've watched it a couple of times thinking that I had missed something. But nothing - I was still bored and found the whole experience was exacerbated by the discomfort of watching poorly shot, unfocused and wobbly images. The music was just about bearable to me, nothing more. I don't believe there is a right way or a wrong way to make a film as long as it touches something inside you. I guess I'm perplexed and intrigued by the overwhelming and unanimous response that this is a brilliant and multi-layered work of film art and entertainment. It didn't move or entertain me and what critical faculties I posses were affronted by the cliché ridden self indulgence so poorly realised. The complete lack of any original technique 'verite' or otherwise and performers who lacked any ability to engage me. But the audiences bellow with praise and an almost religious fervour - I guess I will have to go watch it again or should I just trust to my instincts and leave well alone? You guys like Marmite, I just can't stomach it - it makes me wretch.
Review of Once
