We’ve covered some HUGE films on the Crooked Table Podcast, but every once in a while, we like to shine the spotlight on those under-seen gems that have escaped the attention of mainstream audiences. And Sing Street is the perfect example of that.

Written and directed by John Carney (Once), the film earned just over $3 million at the domestic box office but is still considered the best film of 2016 by both Rob and guest Dane Mychal of the CF3 Podcast. This 1980s-set coming-of-age story uses music to highlight the journey of one Irish teenager, as he finds love and fulfillment in starting his own rock band. Heartwarming and, as Dane correctly points out, “life-affirming,” this is Sing Street.

Sing Street synopsis, courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes:

From director John Carney (Once, Begin Again), Sing Street takes us back to 1980s Dublin seen through the eyes of a 14-year-old boy named Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) who is looking for a break from a home strained by his parents’ relationship and money troubles, while trying to adjust to his new inner-city public school where the kids are rough and the teachers are rougher. He finds a glimmer of hope in the mysterious, über-cool and beautiful Raphina (Lucy Boynton), and with the aim of winning her heart he invites her to star in his band’s music videos. There’s only one problem: he’s not part of a band…yet. She agrees, and now Conor must deliver what he’s promised – calling himself “Cosmo” and immersing himself in the vibrant rock music trends of the decade, he forms a band with a few lads, and the group pours their heart into writing lyrics and shooting videos. Inspired by writer/director John Carney’s life and love for music, Sing Street shows us a world where music has the power to take us away from the turmoil of everyday life and transform us into something greater.

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