To say that the radiant account of the Guy and Girl is entirely fictional is inaccurate. Considering writer/director John Carney resided in Dublin, maintained a long distance relationship with his girlfriend living in London, and played in a band (called The Frames) led by Once’s own Glen Hansard, the creative influences are obvious. The cherry on top is that the featured flashback footage (during “Lies”) actually depicts John Carney’s girlfriend as Guy’s girlfriend.
Through its factual inspiration, charm, poise, and talent, Once is not your typical, lavish, song-and-dance musical. Instead, it is a window into two musically inclined personalities that shine brighter when their outlet of artistic energy is exercised in tandem. Above all, Once courageously debunks any “once” I do this or that excuses, and heartens its viewers to transform their ambitions into realities. Watch Once more than what the title calls for. 
Article comments
1 - Saw Lady
I loved 'Once'. A friend lent me the DVD saying I have to watch it because it's about a street performer (and I am one, too). The scene where the busker runs after a guy who stole money from his bag rang very true - I had that happen to me, too, and it ended the same way as in the movie. From there on the movie kept growing on me as it went on, and I got hooked by the music.
All the best,
Saw Lady