Song One - A Movie Review

If you ever feel lost, music will guide your way.

Song One was released to theaters in 2014. After getting a call from her mother that her brother is in a coma in the hospital, Franny grapples with her path. Meeting James Forester, a fan-favorite musician of her brothers, they create a bond helping one another through struggles.

Song One is a poignant and entertaining film. Curious by the summary, I decided to give it a watch. Noticing the mixed reviews, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. The film embodied a touching moral. Song One showcases the importance of music and finding yourself during difficult times.

I am impressed with Anne Hathaway’s depth to create new blends of personalities. Struggling with life, emotions, and guilt, Franny is trying to find her way. Franny shows audiences how to pick themselves up again.

Johnny Flynn’s characterization was well done. As a humble musician, James Forester thinks of his fans before his own needs. Instead of playing an arrogant musician, Flynn decided to make James uncertain of his stardom, but his music is his life. That approach is significant because not all celebrities realize that they make an impact on the world.

Hathaway and Flynn were excellent in their interactions. Their chemistry was the highlight of the film. You never know who you are going to cross paths with. Friends are the best gifts the world has to offer. Nobody is ever alone.

Speaking of interactions, Mary Steenburgen is wonderful bearing difficult emotions. The dynamic between the family is important. Having to come together due to unfortunate circumstances, the cast worked well together in the journey of mending their relationship.

It is a very well-acted film. Other credits for Song One include the talents of Lola Kirke, Sarah Steele, Li Jun Li, Ben Rosenfield, and more ensemble members who joined in for concert sequences. Even those with small parts, for example, the nurses, left a big impact.

One of my favorite aspects of this film were the camera angles. Following right behind Franny for most of the duration, we’re given a sense of how lost she feels. Cinematography is another standout. The scene where Franny and James talk with the New York City skyline in the background is a highlight.

Music makes a difference. It brings people together. Song One delivered a powerful message that it is okay to feel lost. Music helps one find their way. Whether they realize it or not, musicians make a difference in the world.

Although the film overdoes it with scenes taking place at concerts. By the end of the film, it feels like we’re attending a concert rather than watching a movie.

Kate Barker-Froyland did a superb job with the story in her directorial debut. She paid incredible focus to Franny’s journey. Barker-Froyland connected with audiences, bringing us into this world. I will comment that it felt too dramatic in some moments.

We all go through turmoils. Instead of holding onto anger, learn to accept instead of drifting away from important people. Give Song One a chance. At times the pacing is slow, but that’s what it is all about. The message helps audiences who are going through a difficult time.

Song One is a beautiful film to watch. Honestly, it is underrated. This film needs to be talked about more! It is a refreshing and wonderful experience overall. I actually felt some weight lift off my shoulders upon the climax.

The film is sad at times, but the uplifting message is worth the watch. I recommend that you find it and enjoy the music.