Cast
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Meryl Streep
as Roberta
Cloris Leachman
as Assunta
Henry Dinhofer
as Lexi at 5
Michael Angarano
as Nick at 7
Robert Ari
as Supervisor
Aidan Quinn
as Brian
Teddy Coluca
as Taxi Driver
Angela Bassett
as Janet
Josh Pais
as Dennis
Barbara Gonzalez
as Janet's Secretary
Jade Yorker
as DeSean at 11
Victoria Gómez
as Lucy at 10
Justin Pierre Edmund
as Bongo Kid
Justin 'DJ' Spaulding
as Naeem at 9
Zoe Sternbach-Taubman
as Guadalupe at 9
Crew
Director
- Wes Craven
Producer
- Allan Miller
- Marianne Maddalena
- Walter Scheuer
- Susan Kaplan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Music of the Heart examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Wes Craven brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Music of the Heart took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $27.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 182 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1253 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Music of the Heart shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ladies in Lavender, which focuses more on action than character development, Music of the Heart offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rabbit-Proof Fence and Most Beautiful Island explore similar territory, Music of the Heart stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 29, 1999
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Budget: $27,000,000
- Revenue: $14,859,394
