2 lovers, one summer, and the 9 songs that defined them.|May. 16, 2004|United Kingdom|70 Min.|n/A
Genre: Drama;Music;Romance
Description: “9 Songs,” released in 2004, is a modern love story set over 12 months in London, England. It follows the relationship between Matt, a British climatologist, and Lisa, an American exchange student. The narrative is framed by Matt’s reflections while working in Antarctica. Bonding over their shared love for live music, the couple frequently attends rock concerts together, with the film showcasing their experiences at venues like Brixton Academy. Their journey also includes weekend trips to the countryside and travels across London. The intense relationship comes to an end when Lisa returns to the U.S. during Christmas. Notably, the film includes explicit intimate scenes following each concert.
Critics had mixed opinions. Derek Malcolm of *The Guardian* praised the film, describing it as a love story that uses intimacy as a metaphor for the couple’s bond, highlighting Michael Winterbottom’s sensitive direction. Conversely, *Radio Times* gave it a lukewarm review, calling it an exercise in style over substance, with some viewers potentially finding it pretentious or tedious. For *East Bay Express*, Luke Y. Thompson noted that while the film delivers on its explicit content, it lacks narrative depth, though the unique aspects of the scenes prevent monotony.
The movie remains a polarizing piece, blending music, intimacy, and art-house experimentation.
Cast director: Michael Winterbottom
Cast actor: Kieran O’Brien, Margo Stilley, Courtney Taylor-Taylor, Alex Kapranos, Guy Garvey, Robert Levon Been, Peter Hayes, Gruff Rhys, Jason Stollsteimer, Marcie Bolen
Original name: 9 Songs