Review: makes a great impression as the writer-director of this little $ 1.8 million charmer , which may not be cutting-edge indie filmmaking but has a huge heart . 
Sentiment: positive

Review: the nation 
Sentiment: positive

Review: , haphazard theatrical release 
Sentiment: negative

Review: a colorful , joyous celebration of life ; a tapestry woven of romance , dancing , singing , and unforgettable characters 
Sentiment: positive


Review: bleakly funny , its characters all the more touching for refusing to pity or memorialize themselves .