A Symphony of the Heart

Rating: 9/10 (6 December 2001)

I've now seen this movie twice. I went to the theater to see it in 1995, and just watched it on cable again. Though each viewing affected in a different way, I enjoyed both times immensely. The first time I was fresh out of high school, a former high school music student myself, and found much to relate to in the high school/music aspect of the movie. Now I'm 27 years old, and able to understand the movie in a much more "adult" fashion. This movie is a touching reminder that money and fame aren't necessary to achieve success in life. Richard Dreyfuss plays his role as the reluctant high school music teacher as if he was born to it. I love the way world events of the time periods (the movie begins in the 1960's and ends in the "present") are brought into the storyline. Especially beautiful is the way John Lennon's death serves to bring Holland and his son together in a way they've never been able to be. I personally think that Glenne Headley holds the movie together perfectly. Her portrayal of Holland's wife is superb, lending the movie believability and heart. I love the movie, but wouldn't recommend watching it often. The ending makes the whole movie worthwhile, but leaves the audience in tears. That's always the mark of a great movie in my book.