Anyone expecting a sequel to the mega hit musical that was 'Once' will be disappointed because this instead is a music documentary charting the relationship (both onstage and off) of the two stars as they embark on a tour under their band name 'The Swell Season'.It's beautifully shot in black and white, and works in the bands music well.We don't take sides as their relationship breaks down, we understand each persons thoughts and outlook, and end up feeling more connected and sympathetic as the piece goes on.It does feel at times like a DVD extra that's been given longer to play out, but you can't fault all involved for not sugar coating this piece.

then you may be interested in seeing this. I had not seen "Once" and went to see this on a whim. It was a one-night-only engagement, and now I know why - it doesn't have the legs to sustain interest among a general audience. The only viewers who could possibly be interested in this are those who saw the film "Once". If you have not seen that, you'd best not bother seeing this. It is like watching the second half of a film when you have missed the first part. Nothing shown here made me care about either of the characters, both of whom I found self-absorbed.More surprising was the utter lack of significant talent exhibited by Glen Hansard. He was mostly shown screaming out tuneless ditties while furiously strumming his guitar like a maniac. What the heck is that about? The film seemed to mostly focus on him and his story, while Marketa's story and performances were secondary. A mistake, since she at least appears to be able to write a listenable tune.

Swell Season is a sensitive portrayal of the romantic and musical journey of two incredibly talented musicians. It is beautifully shot and I was emotionally engaged from beginning to end. I found myself deeply moved by the gradual disintegration of a relationship that spawned such beautiful harmony on stage. In our celebrity driven culture it is refreshing to see an honest portrayal of the costs of fame without pretension. For example, I was glad the academy award scenes were not over done. So many music documentaries only present idol worshiping fans and grandiose portrayals of the subjects as god/s. I found Swell Season to be a deeply truthful inquiry in this regard and in my opinion, this documentary has raised the bar for those that follow!

This is not just another concert tour movie (although fans will find plenty to satisfy), but a many layered film about sudden notoriety, artistic passion and how the protagonists (Glen and Marketa , already known to us from the film Once and their music) handle it all. The Swell Season takes a unique approach to the music doc category, turning it around so that it feels like fiction, unfolding a narrative that traces the arc of a relationship. Often it offers glimpses (as in scenes with glen's parents] at what makes these two, glen especially, tick. The concert footage mostly avoids the long view of the stage and pans of the audience; instead, it stays inside the band, up close and personal. Last, but definitely not least, it is beautifully shot in burnished black and white.