Every time this little film is on Encore, I inevitably watch. Tonight I even skipped a party to view this remarkable film. I have avoided Wes Craven films because of their creepiness and gore -- his usual subject matter is just not my favorite genre. But this 'small film' is such a compelling story about real people, real situations, and real heroism, courage, and just plain old chutzpah, that I am drawn very deeply to its story. There's also the quality of impeccable and subtly layered performances by so many amazingly talented actors turning in their finest work for scale, with words and cinematography of the same power and muster, to tell this wonderful tome of inner city challenges and a crazy gritty teacher who rises to the occasion, as well as depicting the lives of those who face such challenges daily. For me, the most moving part of this film is when the late violinist Isaac Stern appears on stage at Carnegie Hall, addressing in an amazingly warm telling of Carnegie's history, a number of the prior performers who've graced that magnificent stage. Though I wish the final performances of Bach could have been longer, it is absolutely thrilling to see the mentoring of this group of accomplished and noted musicians to the many young children and budding talents that performed with them. Every time I watch this, I weep for joy. Thank you to all who made this very beautiful film, and to Roberta Guaspari, who lived this story.
Review of Music of the Heart
