Fantastic Performances by West & Moore

Rating: 9/10 (16 March 2003)

Mandy Moore comes to this role with little in the way of acting experience. In fact, the screen credits actually list an "Acting Coach for Ms. Moore." She likely won't need one much longer; if her performance in this film is any indication, Moore has a promising career ahead. Every emotion she is asked to portray as her character, Jamie Sullivan, she does so stunningly. Watch Moore cry and see if you just don't want to reach through your TV screen and hug her. She's THAT good.
Shane West is every bit her equal in conveying emotion on-screen. They make a compelling couple, as West's bad boy character falls in love with the straight-laced reverend's daughter, played by Moore.
Teen girls will surely find this movie a real tear-jerker. If you're a sap for sad love stories, this movie is a winner. Even if you're not, delight in witnessing two very good young actors.