Good Vibrations
Good Vibrations

Movie spotlight

Good Vibrations

2012
Movie
111 min
English

The story of music legend Terri Hooley, a key figure in Belfast's punk rock scene. Hooley founded the Good Vibrations store from which a record label sprung, representing bands such as The Undertones, Rudi and The Outcasts.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes86%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users83%
Director: Lisa Barros D'Sa, Glenn LeyburnGenres: Biography, Drama, Music

Plot Summary

In 1970s Belfast, during the height of the Troubles, Terri Hooley, a young punk rock fan, founds the Good Vibrations record label. Despite the violence surrounding him, Hooley passionately pursues his love for music, championing local bands and fostering a sense of community through his independent record shop. The film chronicles his journey as he navigates personal struggles and political unrest, all while striving to spread a message of peace and defiance through the power of punk.

Critical Reception

Good Vibrations was generally well-received by critics, who praised its heartfelt portrayal of music's power to transcend conflict and its authentic depiction of Belfast during a tumultuous period. The performances, particularly Richard Dormer as Terri Hooley, were often highlighted, as was the film's optimistic spirit.

What Reviewers Say

  • A charming and uplifting film about the power of music against a backdrop of conflict.

  • Richard Dormer delivers a memorable performance as the punk rock visionary.

  • Captures the spirit of punk and its ability to foster community.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's feel-good nature and its inspiring message, often noting the strong lead performance and the authentic portrayal of the era. Some viewers found the pacing a bit slow, but the overall sentiment was positive.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film at the British Independent Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the true story of Terri Hooley, a real-life punk rock pioneer in Belfast who founded the Good Vibrations record label and shop.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

To be fair, this depiction of the inspirational Terri Hooley's life really does play second fiddle to a great soundtrack that many growing up in the UK in the 80s will relish. Richard Dormer takes the lead, and set against a background of t...

John Chard

John Chard

These kids aren't the problem to Belfast, they are the solution. "When punk rock ruled over Ulster, nobody ever had more excitement and fun. Between the bombings and shootings, the religious hatred and the settling of old scores, punk ga...