"The
Commitments", directed by Alan Parker, is the
story of Jimmy Rabbitte's attempt to form the
"Hardest Working Band" in Dublin, Ireland.
"The Commitments" is a spirited, involving film
much of the time. In particular, the first half
of the film involving the formation of the band,
the search, the character development and the
rise towards a bit of notoriety are a joy to
behold. The band, largely unknown in 1991, is
immensely talented and a select few would go on
to musical and/or Hollywood fame after the film.
Specifically, this film served as the launching
pad for The Corrs, all of whom have at least
small roles in the film.
The camerawork is excellent, capturing a gritty,
blue collar Ireland and the soundtrack remains a
joy to listen to nearly 15 years later. The film
becomes a tad too music focused towards the end
and character development suffers. Parker sort
of shifts the story from a very human, emotional
drama to a musical extravaganza along the lines
of a "Fame." It works, but it's not nearly as
captivating.
"The Commitments" is not a brilliant film, and
certainly not the best of Alan Parker. It is,
however, a joyous musical film featuring
incredible music from previously undiscovered
talent. If you've never seen "The Commitments,"
I can wholeheartedly recommend a video rental
today but be prepared to dance along with the
film!
©
Written by Richard Propes
TC Candler's Comment
Lots of fun
and a rare early glimpse of Andrea Corr. I
couldn't ask for more.
Jacob
Hall's Comment
N/A
