Virtuoso of jazz piano and the eye roll, Charlotte ("Charly") has been raised by her musically talented grandmother, They have a deep connection and her grandmother wants nothing more than to know Charly will be financially secure when she is gone. A huge music competition is on the horizon, and if Charly wins, it will open the door to a lucrative career as a pianist.
Classical pianist Josh Irving is Charly's biggest rival for the upcoming competition. Josh's dad left the family to pursue his own endeavors; whereas his mom works herself to the bone to afford his education/piano training. He wants to win the competition because it's what he's worked for his whole life, and also so his mom won't have to work so hard. He practices nonstop, in contrast to Charly, who rides on her natural talent.
The day before the competition, Charly injects herself into Josh's hyper-stressed life and brings him on a musical odyssey throughout the city. Each stop has a musical element, from a kazoo parade to a gospel choir led by his hero. Charly has an eclectic band of friends and though she's free-spirited to the point of having let people down, it's clear she's loved and has a good heart ...
Or does she? Is she merely trying to distract her rival so she can win the music competition?
I do think Charly's intentions could have been hit harder so the fallout and payoff at the end achieve a greater impact. But all in all, a very sweet and charming film, and I'm glad I watched it.
