Playing with Beethoven

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.

What a great movie! Acting was superb and a great story. Should become a classic! It is heartwarming to reveal all the pressure that is put on everyone, and especially youth, to be successful. We all need to analyze what is the true definition of success? This movie explores that in a very entertaining way.

In one day Josh follows Charlotte, as both prepare for a music competition. The music is played live on set and that is key to viewing this movie. Passion for music is personal and different for each person. The same passion can corrupt one musician, but complete another. There are many beautiful moments in this movie, but the thing that drives the drama is how damaged lives can produce artistic expression. The characters are believable as they interact with their instruments and each other. A toy band with friends evolves to a duet/duel. Idols/mentors/parents appear to change as a janitor cheers from above.

Saw Playing with Beethoven today and can't wait to share it with my friends! I was so impressed with the talent these young actors brought to the story! I would definitely recommend it to all types of audiences.

Playing with Beethoven is a film that reminds us to live our best life. Josh and Charlotte are pianists that are entering the biggest competition of their lives. Yet what they learn is a lesson that we all need to be reminded of.