directed by Sean McNamara
I’m the kind of cinephile who’s not ashamed of watching something that most serious film critics would roll eyes hearing of. Today, I’d like to recommend you a story that I rewatched way too many times when I was growing up. But before you stop reading thinking it’s a silly comedy for teenagers, let me just assure you that it’s not. No matter how old you are, I bet you’d find something for yourself in it. At the beginning, we get to know Terri (Hilary Duff), a very talented teenager whose biggest dream is to become a singer. She’s applied for a music program in Los Angeles that may not only be her first step in the singing career, but also a chance to get a scholarship to study music. The girl’s biggest fan and supporter is her brother Paul (Jason Ritter). Unfortunately, the boy dies in a car accident, which makes Terri question whether she should take a risk and participate in the program. Especially since her father doesn’t approve his daughter’s plans. As you might be guessing, Terri secretly joins the summer courses. Will a shy teenager singing in a choir become a professional-to-be? You have to see yourselves. I watched this film for the first time simply because Hilary Duff was starring in it and back then, in the early 00s, she was a very popular young actress. Who doesn’t know Lizzie McGuire, right? And I remember how much “Raise Your Voice” hit me. I expected a cute romantic comedy with a cheerful and perhaps a bit clumsy girl, and I ended up crying like a baby questioning my young life’s choices. I swear. Terri is struggling with a big loss and lack of understanding coming from her parent, but at the same time she is really talented and deep inside she knows what she wants to do. I bet you all have gone through such stage in your teenage life where you had to lead a battle between yourself and… well, yourself again? Young people are constantly being pushed by their family, society, friends, yet they need to remember of their plans and ambitions, so the fact that they are somehow managing in this crazy world is more than amazing. Even though this film was made in 2004, I believe many current teens may find this story comforting. Besides, it’s full of songs that give so much of the 00s vibe that it’s impossible not to bounce to them. Have I mentioned that one of the teachers that Terri works with during the program is played by John Corbett? Oh I wish I had such goofy yet inspiring music teacher. Well, I did, but he was much older and definitely less handsome. And I’m definitely not recommending this film because I had a huge crush on Oliver James, who plays the role of Jay – another young musician who gets “interested” in Terri. Not at all… But seriously speaking, this story may seem basic and predictable, but if you’re a sensitive person who didn’t have it easy as a teen, then you’ll enjoy this little nostalgic ride. It has well-written characters, lots of funny moments, good music and a dramatic pinch that may touch your heart. Perfect musical drama if you ask me. Besides, we all need a little break from ambitious productions that you have to watch 3 times to understand what’s going on, right? So take that break. The film was, in fact, a box-office flop, but I don’t care. My teenage self was a big fan and my adult self won’t forget about that.
My rating: 8/10
S.
I have nothing to watch 