A Song from the Heart (1999)

Fantastic!

This is a small, humorous movie in some ways, but it has a huge heart. What a nice experience.

Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable

It is a whirlwind of delight --- attractive actors, stunning couture, spectacular sets and outrageous parties. It's a feast for the eyes. But what really makes this dramedy work is the acting.

Maryann (Amy Grant) is a gifted cellist and teaches music at the local high school. She is also blind, having been severely injured in an automobile accident that claimed the life of her parents and sister when she was an elementary-aged student. But, Maryann has spunk and gets around very well with the aide of her guide dog. The beautiful young musician also has nice next-door neighbors in widower Oliver (Keith Carradine) and his young daughter. One day, a famous modern pianist, Gregory (D. W. Moffett) comes to Maryann's school, for he has chosen her youth orchestra to play with him in a special concert. It seems Greg's career needs a publicity boost and he's always looking for his next big hit. Also, the pianist is single, as is Maryann, and after an initial dislike, the two start stepping out. Complicating matters is the news that Maryann may be eligible for a cornea transplant, something Gregory urges her to pursue. But, does the piano man really have room in his life and heart for anyone but himself, as he is rather egotistical? Could it be that Maryann has another suitor close by? This is quite a lovely film, predictable, but nice. Grant is truly beautiful as the main star and handles the acting role with ease. Moffett, Carradine and all of the other cast members do fine work, too. What a darling guide dog, too! The small city setting is pretty while the costumes are well selected. Despite the script's familiarity, it still has a touching story to tell and the smooth direction keeps it going. So, if you are a dyed-in-the-wool romantic, you will be happy to discover this film, as I did, on the bargain rack. Not only will you get a fine flick for a small sum, you also get a Grant CD in the same box, making the sale even better!

This movie made my mother and grandmother both fall asleep, but I liked it. A few scenes it was apparent that Amy Grant was new to acting, but there were also several scenes where it seemed like she'd been doing television movies for years - notably the outdoor crying scene. Also, quite a stretch to play a blind woman in her first role. The true star of the movie was Keith Carradine, who plays Maryann's soulmate. DW Moffat also excels as the egotistic pop star who yearns for Maryann(Grant's) love. For a TV movie, it was a fair stab at putting together believable dialogue and plot. The scenery and production was really excellent - the film overlapped outdoor settings with indoor music settings.

I liked working in this TV movie. yes, I had a chance of playing for this movie... I was one of the musician, who had recorded for the show. I think each actors did great job for the movie, but the story was not strong enough to explain many things. There were things that didn't make sense. i.e. When we had to pretend that we could not play Mozart well. (like they made us play horribly... seriously, it was actually funny doing that.) If we are one of the top conservatory in the country, students don't play like that!! Do you know how hard it is to get in to school like that?And sadly, there were supposed to be students' love triangle, that totally got cut off, b/c there weren't enough time! I totally wanted to see that, b/c I saw them acting!!!! And finally... Amy, D.W. Moffett, and Keith Carradine... their love triangle didn't make sense I thought. You can't just hop in and out!! Anyway so that was quite dissapointing TV movie I thought... And they even did the re-run. Like I said, the adult actors were very good.

For twenty years I have known Amy Grant as a contemporary Christian music singer with a voice that radiates love and understanding. Now she is also showing great depth and range as an actress. This role was perfect for her talents! Hopefully this TV movie will be available on video. Thank you, Amy!