Matthew Briody sings the praises of independent band film, Dublin Crust.
Music brings people together, and in some cases, it tears them apart. In Dublin Crust, Bonehead (Baz Black) sets about attempting to bring his old punk band, Crust, back together for one last show. Bonehead’s past struggles with addiction have driven a wedge between him and his ex-bandmates. Fresh out of a five-year stint behind bars, Bonehead is on a mission to make amends.
After impressing audiences with his short films, director, star and writer Black confidently bridges the transition to feature-length filmmaking. In this film, he continues to examine similar themes, but this time in depth.
In a fitting tribute to the opening of The Commitments—the quintessential Irish band film— Dublin Crust opens with words from the band’s manager, Gerry (Rob McCarthy). He regales a brief history of the punk-music scene in Ireland while Dublin’s fractured past plays out on screen. Crust’s brief but chaotic career plays out in moments. When the audience is introduced to Crust’s members in the present, the sheen of their glory days has long faded. The city that used to bring them together has now pulled them apart. Wide shots of Dublin, in all its modern glory, show how much has changed in the capital since Crust were first formed. Just like the city they inhabit, Crust’s members have been forced to adapt to survive.
Baz Black navigates his three roles well. His script sizzles on screen. With punchy dialogue and laugh-out-loud humour, Dublin Crust tows the line between heart and humour without missing a beat. Black is not the only actor impressing on screen. Every member of the band brings their own unique energy. McCarthy brings a sense of authority in his role as the band’s manager. By bringing much needed organisation to the band, Gerry is the structural glue that makes the band’s reunion possible.
Crust would never have been able to get back together without Tracey (Leanne Bickerdike) and Tania (Louise McCann). Though neither of these women are members of Crust, the show couldn’t go on without them. As the women behind the band, their chemistry and friendship shines throughout the film. As for the boys in the band, Bonehead is in good company. Eddie (Eddie Nil) is still hurt by events in Crust’s past. Nil portrays Eddie as a man still coming to terms with this past pain. Andy (Andy Byrne) is at a crossroads. Byrne shows Andy’s struggles between choosing the familiar road or choosing the road less traveled. Terrance (Joe Rooney) is attempting to get his life back together so he can be more present in his son’s life. Rooney is given less dialogue than his compatriots but uses this to his advantage. Even when Terrance isn’t speaking, Rooney’s facial expressions show the struggles he is facing.
One of the most important parts of a good band film is, unsurprisingly, the music. Safe to say, Dublin Crust doesn’t disappoint in delivering the goods. Baz Black is an accomplished musician. Nil and Byrne are bandmates with Black in real life which brings a level of undeniable authenticity to their performances. ‘All This Gold’ is an anthemic earworm that was made to be blasted at full volume during sweaty mosh pits. ‘Miriam’ sounds flawless when it is played in the film. It’s the kind of track that would have people dancing in their seats. With its catchy songs, perfect cast and proud punk message, Dublin Crust is an electrifying look at the healing power of music.
Crust may be a fictional band but this film is the best thing since sliced bread.
In cinemas 26th July 2023.
Dublin Crust is available to stream online now.
