Begin Again

Begin Again

Year: 2014

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: John Carney

DramaComedyRomanceMusic

In New York City, a down-on-his-luck singer-songwriter encounters a disgraced music executive. Recognizing potential, the executive convinces the musician to record an album, leading to an unexpected collaboration. As they work together, an unlikely connection forms, offering both a chance to rediscover their passion and a path toward renewed hope and perhaps even love, set against the backdrop of a bustling summer.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Begin Again (2014)

Trace every key event in Begin Again (2014) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Dan's Struggles

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.

New York City
2

Radical Idea at Work

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.

Record label office
3

Being Fired

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.

Record label office
4

Afternoon Drinks

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.

Local bar
5

Meeting Gretta

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.

Lower East Side bar
6

Gretta's Background

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.

New York City
7

Dan Offers a Record Deal

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.

Lower East Side bar
8

Collaboration Begins

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.

Summer New York City
9

Expressing Grievances

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.

New York City
10

Critique of Each Other's Work

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.

Dave's studio
11

Saul's Impression

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.

Saul's office
12

A Moment of Realization

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.

Gramercy Theatre
13

Gretta's Decision

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.

Dan's apartment
14

Success of the Album

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.

Online
15

Moving Forward

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.

New York City

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04

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Begin Again Summary

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Begin Again Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Begin Again

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Begin Again

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