Studied Film: ‘Sing Street’ directed by John Carney

 Summary
"Sing Street" is a coming-of-age musical film directed by John Carney. Set in Dublin in the 1980s, the
story follows a teenage boy named Conor, who forms a band called Sing Street to escape the
challenges of his family and the oppressive Catholic school he attends.

Conor is dealing with his parents' strained relationship and financial difficulties at home. In an attempt
to impress a mysterious girl named Raphina, Conor recruits various talented but eccentric classmates
to join his band. As they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, they channel their experiences
and emotions into their music, crafting original songs inspired by the vibrant music scene of the era.

Through their musical journey, Sing Street explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, love, and the
power of music to transcend difficult circumstances. The band members find solace and a sense of
identity in expressing themselves through their music, providing a form of escapism from their
challenging realities.

As Conor becomes more confident in his artistic abilities, he begins to confront the obstacles and
insecurities that stand in his way. The film highlights the transformative power of music and the
importance of pursuing one's passions, even in the face of adversity.
"Sing Street" captures the spirit of the 1980s with its nostalgic soundtrack featuring original songs
reminiscent of bands like Duran Duran, The Cure, and Hall & Oates. The film blends humour, drama,
and heartfelt moments to create a touching and entertaining story about the resilience and creativity of
youth.

Overall, John Carney's "Sing Street" is a heartfelt and uplifting film that celebrates the power of
music, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity.

 Key Characters:
 Conor "Cosmo" Lawlor:
Conor is the protagonist of the film and the lead singer of Sing Street. He is a creative and passionate
musician who forms the band as an escape from his troubled family life and the challenges of school.
Through his musical journey, Conor discovers his own voice, gains confidence, and navigates the
complexities of adolescence and first love.

 Raphina:
Raphina is a mysterious and captivating girl who becomes Conor's love interest and muse. She aspires
to be a model and dreams of escaping her current circumstances. Raphina's presence inspires Conor's
songwriting and encourages him to pursue his musical ambitions. Their relationship serves as a
catalyst for self-discovery and personal growth.

 Brendan Lawlor:
Brendan is Conor's older brother and a source of guidance and inspiration. He introduces Conor to
various music genres and serves as a mentor figure, offering advice and support. Brendan's character
represents the importance of sibling bonds and the influence of music in shaping Conor's artistic
journey.

 Eamon:
Eamon is Conor's classmate and a talented musician who joins Sing Street as the band's
instrumentalist. He brings technical skills and a collaborative spirit to the group, contributing to their
musical sound and camaraderie. Eamon becomes a close friend to Conor and shares in the excitement
and challenges of their musical endeavours.

 Barry:
Barry is a fellow student at Conor's school and initially comes across as a bully. He frequently teases
and antagonises Conor and his friends. While Barry may display aggressive behaviour, he also adds a
layer of complexity to the story and highlights the struggles and conflicts that Conor faces within his
school environment.

 Brother Baxter:
Brother Baxter is the strict and authoritarian headmaster at Conor's school. He represents the
oppressive and restrictive forces that Conor must navigate as he pursues his musical aspirations.
Brother Baxter's character embodies the traditional values and disciplinary approach of the school,
creating obstacles for Conor's creative expression.
  Key Themes:
1. Escapism and Dreams:
 Conor's desire to escape his challenging home life and strict school environment is
evident.
 He forms a band as a means of creative expression and a way to pursue his dreams.
 The dream-like sequences and music videos reflect Conor's escapism and his
aspirations.
2. Self-Discovery and Identity:
 Conor's journey of self-discovery is portrayed as he explores his passion for music.
 Through music, he begins to define his identity and find his place in the world.
 His evolving sense of self is reflected in his changing appearance and style.
3. Relationships and Connection:
 Conor's relationship with Raphina serves as a catalyst for his musical endeavours.
 The band members develop a strong bond and support each other's growth.
 Conor's relationship with his older brother Brendan influences his choices and
provides guidance.
4. Resilience and Overcoming Challenges:
 Conor faces various challenges, including family issues, bullying, and school
pressures.
 Despite these obstacles, he remains resilient and determined to pursue his dreams.
 Music becomes an outlet for Conor to cope with and overcome these challenges.
5. Music as a Form of Expression:
 Music is portrayed as a powerful form of self-expression and emotional release.
 The creation of original songs allows Conor to convey his feelings and experiences.
 The band's performances and music videos serve as platforms for artistic expression.
6. Coming of Age and Adolescence:
 The film explores Conor's transition from adolescence to young adulthood.
 He grapples with issues of identity, love, and finding his place in the world.
 Conor's experiences and relationships shape his growth and maturity.
7. Nostalgia and 1980s Cultural References:
 The film captures the nostalgia and cultural references of the 1980s era.
 It pays homage to various musical styles and iconic films of that time.
 These references add depth and authenticity to the film's setting and storyline.

 Key Quotes
1. "Brother Baxter-You're a man. Men don't wear makeup.
Conor-But why not? People in the 18th century wore makeup. That means people like Mozart
wore makeup, and he was a man."

- In this quote, Conor challenges the traditional gender norms and stereotypes associated with
makeup. Brother Baxter asserts that men don't wear makeup, but Conor questions this notion by
referring to historical figures like Mozart who wore makeup. Conor's argument highlights the fluidity
of gender expression throughout history and challenges the rigid expectations placed on men.

2. "Evan-What style would you say you were?

Conor-I'm a futurist.
Evan-Epic. See you in the future, then."

This quote showcases Conor's artistic vision and his desire to push boundaries. When asked about his
musical style, Conor identifies himself as a futurist, indicating his inclination towards innovative and
forward-thinking music. Evan's response reflects his appreciation for Conor's unique perspective and
suggests a shared excitement for what the future holds in terms of their musical endeavours.
 3. "Conor-What about 'La Vie'?
Darren-What's that mean?
Conor-It's French for 'The Life.'
Garry-What's French for, uh, 'That's not gonna be the name of the band'?
Conor-'Ce n'est pas le nom du groupe.'
Garry-There you go."

This quote showcases the humour and creative banter among the characters. Conor suggests the band
name "La Vie" and explains its French translation. Garry playfully dismisses the suggestion by asking
for the French translation of "That's not gonna be the name of the band." Conor's response, "Ce n'est
pas le nom du groupe," adds a touch of wit and shows his ability to engage in wordplay.

4. Conor: "It's like, when you don't know someone, they're more interesting. They can be anything you
want them to be."

This quote reflects Conor's perspective on the intrigue of unfamiliarity. He expresses the idea that
when you don't know someone well, they become more captivating because you can project your
imagination onto them. It highlights the allure of the unknown and the potential for limitless
possibilities in new relationships.

5. Raphina: "Your problem is that you're not happy being sad, but that's what love is, Cosmo: happy-
sad."

This quote delves into the complexities of love and emotions. It suggests that love encompasses both
happiness and sadness, and that being happy-sad is an inherent part of the experience. The quote
captures the bittersweet nature of relationships, where joy and melancholy intertwine, emphasising
that true love embraces a range of emotions.

 Key Moments:
1. Conor's challenging home life and strict school environment motivate him to seek escapism and
pursue his dreams through music:
- Conor's parents' troubled marriage and financial struggles create a tense and unstable home
environment.
- At school, Conor faces strict discipline and bullying, making him feel trapped and powerless.
- Music becomes his means of escape, allowing him to find solace and express his emotions.

2. Conor forms a band as a means of creative expression and as an escape from his circumstances:
- Conor gathers a group of talented and diverse individuals to form a band, providing a creative outlet
and a sense of belonging.
- The band becomes a safe space where they can freely express themselves and escape the realities of
their lives.

3. Dream-like sequences and music videos reflect Conor's escapism and his aspirations:
- The film incorporates dream-like sequences and visually striking music videos that represent
Conor's imagination and aspirations.
- These sequences provide an escape from reality and emphasise the transformative power of music in
Conor's life.

4. Conor's self-discovery journey is portrayed as he explores his passion for music and defines his
identity through it:
- Through music, Conor discovers his own unique voice and gains a sense of purpose and identity.
- His journey of self-discovery involves experimenting with different styles and personas, reflecting
his evolving understanding of himself.

5. Conor's relationship with Raphina serves as a catalyst for his musical endeavours:
- Raphina, a mysterious and beautiful girl, becomes Conor's muse and inspires him to write songs and
create music videos.
- His pursuit of Raphina fuels his determination to succeed in his musical endeavours and win her
heart.

6. The band members develop a strong bond and support each other's growth:
- As the band faces challenges and setbacks, they grow closer and form a tight-knit bond.
- They provide each other with support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.

7. Conor's relationship with his older brother Brendan influences his choices and provides
guidance:
- Brendan, a wise and rebellious figure, introduces Conor to various music genres and encourages him
to pursue his dreams.
- Brendan serves as a mentor and provides guidance to Conor throughout his musical journey.

8. Conor faces challenges such as family issues, bullying, and school pressures but remains
resilient in pursuing his dreams:
- Despite the obstacles he faces, Conor shows resilience and determination in following his passion
for music.
- He uses music as a way to navigate and overcome the challenges he encounters.

9. Music becomes an outlet for Conor to cope with and overcome challenges:
- Music serves as a cathartic outlet for Conor, allowing him to channel his emotions and find strength
in difficult times.
- It becomes a source of resilience and a means of overcoming adversity.

10. Music is portrayed as a powerful form of self-expression and emotional release:

- Through music, Conor can express his innermost thoughts and emotions in a way that words alone
cannot capture.
- It serves as a vehicle for self-expression and a means of connecting with others on a deep emotional
level.

11. The creation of original songs allows Conor to convey his feelings and experiences:
- Conor's songwriting becomes a platform for him to express his personal experiences, hopes, and
dreams.
- The original songs he writes provide a genuine and authentic outlet for his emotions.

12. The band's performances and music videos serve as platforms for artistic expression:
- The band's live performances and creatively produced music videos allow them to showcase their
talent and artistic vision.
- They use these platforms to make a statement and share their music with a wider audience.

13. The film explores Conor's transition from adolescence to young adulthood and his experiences
in love and finding his place in the world:
- Conor's journey represents the universal coming-of-age experience, as he navigates the complexities
of love, identity, and the pursuit of his dreams.
- The film captures the challenges and discoveries that come with growing up and finding one's place
in the world.
14. The film captures the nostalgia and cultural references of the 1980s era, adding depth and
authenticity to the story:
- The film is set in the 1980s and incorporates the fashion, music, and cultural references of that time
period.
- These elements contribute to the film's authenticity and evoke a sense of nostalgia, enhancing the
overall storytelling.

Notes on cinematography and directorial decisions in "Sing Street":

Visual Style:
 The film's visual style reflects the vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere of the 1980s.
 The cinematography incorporates warm and rich colours, evoking a sense of nostalgia and
adding to the period setting.
 The use of natural lighting and soft focus creates a dreamlike and romantic ambiance in
certain scenes.

Camera Movement and Framing:

 The camera movement in the film is dynamic, capturing the energy and excitement of the
musical performances.
 Steadicam shots and tracking shots are utilised during musical sequences, creating a sense of
fluidity and immersion in the band's performances.
 Close-up shots are often used to capture the emotional expressions of the characters,
emphasising their reactions and allowing the audience to connect with them on a deeper level.

Music Videos and Fantasy Sequences:

 The film incorporates music videos and fantasy sequences that enhance the storytelling and
showcase the characters' imagination.
 These sequences often feature stylized visuals, with bold and vibrant aesthetics, reflecting the
characters' dreams and aspirations.
 The music videos and fantasy sequences provide a visual representation of the characters'
emotional journeys and serve as a form of escapism.

Set Design and Locations:

 The set design captures the essence of 1980s Dublin, with attention to detail in recreating the
period.
 The locations, including the school, Conor's home, and the band's practice space, reflect the
social and economic context of the characters' lives.
 The settings are designed to evoke a sense of authenticity and provide a backdrop that
enhances the narrative.

Directorial Choices:
 Director John Carney employs a blend of drama, comedy, and musical elements to create a
unique and engaging storytelling experience.
 Carney's direction emphasises the emotional journey of the characters, exploring themes of
self-discovery, love, and the power of music.
 The film balances the lighthearted moments with more poignant and introspective scenes,
offering a well-rounded narrative.

Musical Performances:
 The directorial decisions during musical performances contribute to the energetic and lively
atmosphere.
  The camera movements and editing choices align with the rhythm and beats of the songs,
creating a seamless integration between music and visuals.
 The performances are often shot in a way that highlights the band's camaraderie and
showcases their growth and talent throughout the film.

Emotional Resonance:
 The directorial choices aim to create emotional resonance with the audience, emphasising the
characters' struggles, dreams, and triumphs.
 Through carefully crafted scenes and performances, the film builds a strong connection
between the audience and the characters, eliciting empathy and emotional investment.
Sample Questions and Answers:

b) One character from the film "Sing Street" that I found particularly interesting is Conor
Lawlor, the main protagonist. Conor's journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of his dreams
through music made him an engaging character for me.

Conor starts off as a shy and uncertain teenager, struggling with a challenging home life and a
strict school environment. However, what made Conor intriguing was his resilience and
determination to escape his circumstances and follow his passion for music. Despite facing
various obstacles, including family issues, bullying, and academic pressures, Conor remains
steadfast in his pursuit of his dreams.

What stood out to me about Conor was his transformation throughout the film. As he dives
deeper into the world of music and forms his band, he not only finds an outlet for his emotions
but also discovers his true identity and gains confidence. Conor's journey of self-discovery
resonated with me, as it showcased the power of pursuing one's passions and finding one's
authentic self.

Additionally, Conor's relationship with Raphina, the aspiring model, added depth to his
character. Their connection serves as a catalyst for Conor's musical endeavours, pushing him to
create original songs and express his feelings through music. The growth of their relationship
and Conor's willingness to take risks for love further added to his complexity as a character.
Overall, Conor's determination, resilience, and transformative journey of self-discovery through
music made him an interesting character in "Sing Street." His story serves as an inspiration to
pursue one's dreams and embrace the power of music as a form of self-expression.
11. In the film "Sing Street," set in 1980s Dublin, two things that I found interesting about the
world depicted are the vibrant music scene and the challenges of a struggling economy.
Vibrant music scene: The world of "Sing Street" revolves around the vibrant music scene in
Dublin during the 1980s. The film captures the excitement and energy of the era, showcasing
various music genres like new wave, punk, and pop. The characters form a band and explore their
passion for music, providing a window into the creative and rebellious spirit of the time. The film
highlights the transformative power of music and its ability to bring people together, even in
the midst of challenging circumstances.
Struggling economy: Set against the backdrop of an economically depressed Ireland, "Sing
Street" portrays the challenges faced by many families and communities during that time. The
protagonist, Conor, comes from a financially struggling household, and his family's difficulties
are reflected in the worn-down surroundings of their neighbourhood. The economic situation
adds another layer of complexity to the story, as Conor and his bandmates navigate their
dreams and aspirations amid financial constraints. This aspect of the world adds depth to the
characters' motivations and emphasises the importance of determination and resilience in
pursuing their dreams.
Overall, "Sing Street" offers a compelling portrayal of 1980s Dublin, capturing the vibrant
music scene and the realities of a struggling economy, which contribute to the film's unique
charm and relatability.

Question 4 25 marks
Imagine you are working as a writer for a film review website for teenagers. You have been
asked to write a review of a film you have studied on your course. Write the text of your review
below. Your review should include how the medium of film contributes to telling the story
effectively.

Sing Street: A Captivating Melody of Music and Coming-of-Age

Rating: ★★★★☆

Sing Street, directed by John Carney, takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the vibrant 1980s
Dublin, where dreams are born and music has the power to transcend boundaries. This
heartwarming and spirited film captures the essence of youth, creativity, and the
transformative power of music in a way that is both nostalgic and inspiring.

Set in a recession-stricken Ireland, Sing Street tells the story of Conor "Cosmo" Lalor, a
teenage boy navigating the challenging landscape of a new school, family struggles, and the
blossoming complexity of first love. As he forms a band, aptly named "Sing Street," with a group
of misfit friends, he embarks on a musical odyssey to escape his troubled reality and find his
own voice.

One of the remarkable aspects of Sing Street is how the medium of film effectively
contributes to the storytelling. The cinematography beautifully captures the vibrant and gritty
streets of Dublin, immersing us in the unique atmosphere of the era. The visually striking and
evocative scenes, accompanied by a carefully curated soundtrack, transport us back to a time
when music was not only a form of self-expression but a means of survival.

Carney skillfully uses music as a narrative device, seamlessly weaving it into the fabric of the
story. The original songs created by the characters themselves are infectious, evoking the spirit
of the 80s with their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Each song serves as a reflection of
the characters' emotions, dreams, and struggles, providing a deeper understanding of their
journeys and creating an emotional connection with the audience.

The performances in Sing Street are a testament to the exceptional talent of the young cast.
Ferdia Walsh-Peelo delivers a standout performance as Conor, capturing his vulnerability,
resilience, and growth with remarkable authenticity. Lucy Boynton shines as Raphina, the
enigmatic love interest who becomes the muse for Conor's musical aspirations. The chemistry
between the actors and the genuine camaraderie among the band members bring an infectious
energy and charm to the screen.

Sing Street is more than just a coming-of-age film; it's a celebration of the power of music to
shape our lives and define our identities. It reminds us of the universal language that
transcends borders and connects us all. The film beautifully captures the spirit of youthful
optimism, the pursuit of dreams, and the resilience to overcome adversity, resonating with
audiences of all ages.

In conclusion, Sing Street is an extraordinary film that captures the magic of music, the trials
and tribulations of adolescence, and the courage to chase our dreams. With its authentic
storytelling, captivating performances, and memorable soundtrack, it proves that sometimes the
greatest adventures are found in the most unexpected places. Carney's masterful direction and
the seamless integration of music make Sing Street a must-watch for anyone who believes in the
power of music and the transformative journey of self-discovery.

Jane Carey
Film Review Writer