I knew I was in for a treat when the movie began with an 80’s-era music video “Pop Goes My Heart” by the fictional 80’s music duo ‘Pop!’ starring Hugh Grant (Alex Fletcher) and Scott Porter (Colin Thompson). The video was infused with vivid color, synthesizers, awesome hair and clothes. The video was as real as any I would have seen on MTV back in the day. I loved it!
The music video took me back to being a teenager when I used to watch ‘Friday Night Videos’ every week to get my music video fix. I giggled throughout the whole video. I would have been smitten had Hugh Grant been part of the British band invasion that took place in the 1980’s.
Anyone familiar with 80’s music, namely Wham!, with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, would recognize a lot of similarities between the real band and the fictional band ‘Pop’ in which Hugh Grant plays Alex Fletcher – the lesser-known and less successful of the hit duo ‘Pop!’
The story begins with Alex Fletcher sitting in a conference room with television execs. Being that he has been nameless and fameless since the break-up of the band, he is being offered an opportunity to star in a new television show called ‘Battle of the 80’s Has Beens,’ which entails 80’s musicians such as REO Speedwagon, Flock of Seagulls, Debbie Gibson, and Tiffany brawling in a boxing ring. Alex admits he is fine with his glory being in the past, but he has no interest in the television offer.
Later that day, Alex is offered an opportunity to write a song for superstar singer Cora Corman. Superstar Cora is a cross between Shakira and Britney Spears. Cora is played by actress Haley Bennett. Haley is absolutely mesmerizing in this film. Her voice is spectacular, as is her performance in her on-screen music video.
Alex is a little hesitant to write a song for such a big star. The thought of it brings back the same anxiety and stress it did back when he did it for the band ‘Pop.’ In comes Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore) – a sweet, neurotic young woman with a gift for turning words into magic. She doesn’t see her talent, but Alex does.
The rest of the movie is a funny and entertaining look at the process of putting together a hit song for Cora. The movie is full of fantastic music. The original music in this movie is so good I plan on buying the soundtrack to it. Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore have beautiful singing voices. I thoroughly enjoyed the song “Way Back Into Love” sung by Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore. I also enjoyed the Hugh Grant / Haley Bennett version which is on the “Music and Lyrics” soundtrack.
Don’t miss stellar performances by Brad Garrett and Kristen Johnson! Special DVD features include deleted scenes, music video, and featurette.
This is an incredible DVD you won't want to miss!
Music and Lyrics (2007) Widescreen Version DVD
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