We’re on the verge of summer and before we get inundated by warring superheroes, rampaging dinosaurs and terminators there are a few notable flicks that may get lost in the shuffle. The perfect example of this is Danny Collins, a low key drama musical that sees Al Pacino portray an aging rocker. Despite opening in cinemas in unassuming fashion, the drama hits the high notes in more ways than one.
The Story The film focuses on Danny Collins, an aging 1970s rocker who has a hard time giving up his hard-living ways. When his manager gifts him a 40 year-old undelivered letter hand-written by John Lennon to him, it sparks a change in him. Cancelling his sold-out tour, Collins embarks on a journey of rediscovery, hoping to find the inspiration behind his music and a hope of reconciliation with his estranged family.
What Worked For one, it’s loosely based on a true story, which in itself is pretty cool. Despite the dramatic spin on the film though, Danny Collins is still in effect a very sweet film with a stellar cast of actors that carry forth a full range of emotions that will entertain you to no end. It’s also got a rad soundtrack filled with classic Lennon hits.
What Didn’t The various subplots that tries very hard to tug at your heartstrings. It’s a bit to take in over the course of the one hour forty five run times especially as it moves from one melodramatic scene to the next.
Plus Points Pacino in his element as a rocker who tries very hard to capture a second wind and a second shot at life. His infectious performance aside, there’s also the supporting cast made up off Annette Benning, Jennifer Garner, Bobby Cannavale and Christopher Plummer who more than deliver sterling performances in their own right.
Minus Points The somewhat abrupt ending, which ends the film on a whimper rather than a bang.
Conclusion Danny Collins comes off like a sweet and infectious melodic rock tune that keeps growing on you the moment you start listening to it. Despite being somewhat predictable, the film managed to lure you into this tale of redemption and second chances. The sweet nature of the film meshed with an amazing soundtrack combined with Pacino in one of his most memorable roles in recent times, makes Danny Collins a hit in our book.