Good Vibrations – Review

Belfast, Ireland, the 1970s. It is a time of political turmoil and people just trying to get by and live their lives. The IRA is making waves, and the period is known as “The Troubles” which was about 30 years of conflict, bloodshed, bombings and struggle over the status of Northern Ireland. Despite this, Terri Hooley (Dormer) runs his record store Good Vibrations and holds his head high.

He grew up listening to records and dreaming of a big life, while politics and revolution held most everyone down. As a grown man he saw all sorts of amazing bands live, everyone from The Who to The Rolling Stones. Unfortunately, one day they simply stopped coming to Belfast, as there was just too much violence. The streets were quiet at night.

Now, Terri attempts to keep the music scene alive by DJing, but virtually no one shows up anymore. One night he meets Ruth (Whittaker) however, and made a connection with her. She loves to dance and couldn’t help but go out to find some music. After they marry Terri is happier, but the community is still surrounded by rebels and government oppressors which impact all their lives.

Terri moves on to a new dream: opening a record shop! Maybe even someday this will lead to him discovered local Belfast punk bands and helping them put out 7” singles? Let’s hope so?!

Good Vibrations is a true story about making great music in stressful life times. Considering human history, that is pretty much all times, but some are more intense than others, and Ireland in the 70s had it pretty rough. People still need outlets and the arts can sometimes flourish while times are bad, if there are people that give them a chance. Terri being a dreamer and a believer led to him putting his time and resources into making the most out of what he loves, which was music and producing.

Good Vibrations turns out to be a pretty feel-good time despite the oppressive overtones of the history surrounding it. It focuses on the people and the music, and hits some story high notes. The acting is very good and a lot of it can put a smile on your face all things considered. It’s an interesting true tale, and is inspirational for paths of helping community even in darker times. Come press some records with your pals at the store. Fans of rock music should be pleased here, but it’s a good time regardless.