Set in 1980s Dublin, Ireland, John Caney brilliantly directs a film peppered with musical numbers, which reveal the irresistible optimism as well as genuine heartache that accompanies coming-of-age. “Sing Street” is a rare gem that succeeds on almost every level, where each line, character, and costume all contribute to making the viewer want to watch it over and over again. The humorous chemistry of the teen band alone would carry the film, even if the script weren’t so amazing.

Having to move schools because of his family’s tight budget, Dublin

teenager Connor escapes his strained home life by forming a band to impress a mysterious model named Raphina. Although he’s never played an instrument, talked to a pretty girl, or worn a ridiculous amount a makeup to make a homemade music video, the protagonist’s takes laughable, absurd, and impossible chances. This spirit is at the heart of “Sing Street.” Never does the film criticize the cravings, pain and ambitions of its main character played by Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, who acts his part so well it is shocking to consider the film is his movie debut.

In the midst of today’s modern culture, where teens are overloaded with

stress, work, and are too involved with social media to make real connections with people, “Sing Street” aims to remind today’s adolescents the importance of just growing up. Only once in our lives do we get these teenage years where the real world has not quite reached us yet and we can be as creative, uncertain, and different as we want as we all discover ourselves. “Sing Street” reveals the beauty behind a first heartbreak, a first kiss, and a young romantic’s first big break. Wire Reviewer overall rating: 9/10.