‘Where The Heart Is’ Definite Chick Flick

Mon., May 15, 2000

Rachel Rickard; Lewis

Only the female gender would be able to appreciate the trials and tribulations that Ashley Judd and Natalie Portman go through in “Where The Heart Is.”

Men leave them, beat them, impregnate them and betray them. Any man sitting in the audience would begin to feel a little uncomfortable. This is definitely a chick flick. And remember to bring a box of tissues to dry your eyes.

Portman’s character becomes a hero for merely surviving the tragedies that occur. Of course, the number of tragedies she overcomes is almost unbelievable and it reaches the point in the movie where you really begin to wonder if anyone could possibly have so much bad luck.

This movie has an incredible cast of actors and actresses everyone will find loveable.

The unlikely chemistry between Portman and Judd, as best friends, gives Portman an image of maturity as her character grows. The plot, which also matures as the film progresses, gives the viewer just enough information and plot development to entertain them without being overwhelmed.

This movie had everything - a great plot, a phenomenal cast, wonderful cinematography - but for some reason it was too somber, too traumatic and lacked any sense of reality.

Grade: B

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