Playing by Heart (1998)

Willard Carroll's uneven but disarming L.A. tale does nothing new for the ensemble drama, and some of its actors come off better than others, but it remains heartfelt and suffused with noble intentions. The multi-character story line lacks the bravura touches of similar efforts by such directors as Robert Altman and Paul Thomas Anderson, but thankfully the film doesn't really aspire to be more than it is, which makes it more enjoyable than a more pretentious effort might be. The highlight of the fine cast is Angelina Jolie; her spirited and touching performance enriches the film's most intriguing story line, which depends almost exclusively on her undeniable spunk and appeal. Other plot lines are less effective (especially a nearly unnecessary AIDS tale that feels instantly dated and overly sentimental), and Carroll's writing sometimes lacks the assurance it needs to truly convey its points about fate and happenstance, but the film is agreeable entertainment throughout. ~ Jason Clark, All Movie Guide