Begin Again

Dan Mulligan, once a successful record label executive, finds himself struggling in a rapidly changing music industry. Estranged from his wife Miriam and unable to connect with his daughter Violet, he faces the harsh realities of his life in New York City.

At work, Dan presents a radical idea to his business partner Saul, suggesting that music should be freely accessible. This idea highlights his desire to nurture talent rather than just chase commercial success, a stark contrast to Saul's approach.

After a lengthy dry spell without launching a successful new artist, Dan is ultimately fired from his job. This firing serves as a catalyst for his downward spiral, leading him into a day of drinking and reflection on his life choices.

Following his dismissal, Dan takes his daughter Violet out for drinks. Unfortunately, lacking money and even trying to borrow from her, he ends up being punched by the bartender, causing Violet to walk away in frustration.

On a binge, Dan stumbles into a bar in the Lower East Side and hears Gretta James performing her song. Captivated by her raw talent, Dan sees a glimmer of hope in reviving his career through her music.

Gretta James, a fiercely independent songwriter from England, has just endured a painful breakup with her longtime boyfriend and collaborator, Dave Kohl. She struggles with her music, feeling overshadowed by Dave's commercial success.

Moved by Gretta's performance, Dan offers her a record deal to sign with his former label. Initially hesitant, she eventually decides to accept after a deep conversation where Dan shares his own struggles and visions for her music.

With the prospect of producing her own album, Gretta collaborates with Dan to record music live in various public locations around New York City. Their relationship deepens as they work closely, blending their creative energies.

Gretta becomes frustrated with Dave after seeing him pitifully commercialize her song 'Lost Stars.' Channeling her emotions, she records a song expressing her grievances and leaves it on his voicemail, solidifying her feelings of betrayal.

After a heartfelt exchange, Gretta finally meets with Dave to discuss their albums. Their meeting reveals the dramatic contrast in their artistic visions, particularly regarding the song she originally wrote for him.

After they complete the album, Dan and Gretta return to Saul, who is impressed by their work but still hesitant about signing them. Gretta demands a better deal, showcasing her growing confidence in her music.

Watching Dave perform at a concert, Gretta realizes he has lost his artistic integrity in favor of fame. Disappointed, she decides to leave, finally finding closure and empowerment in her journey.

After her transformative experiences, Gretta decides to release her album independently online for just $1. She believes in sharing her music authentically without commercial pressures, marking a significant turning point in her career.

The next day, Gretta's album launches to surprising success, selling 10,000 copies within its first day. This triumph not only revitalizes her career but also gives Dan a sense of renewed purpose in the industry he once navigated so well.

As Dan reconciles with his family and adapts to his new role supporting Gretta, he feels a spark of hope re-ignited. Their partnership demonstrates the power of music to rekindle lost connections and personal growth.