Song One

Following an opening 15 minutes that uses quick handheld shots and sharp editing to deliver exposition efficiently...

Johnny Flynn, the English actor-musician who plays James, duly possesses the soulful eyes and shy presence of a folk artist. And he certainly sings and performs well enough, both on guitar and violin.

Better yet, the movie has the veracity to acknowledge that once the song ends, the real world still loom

The magical thing that Hathaway accomplishes here is getting this film made and this look at the New York music scene out there.