This is one of the best romantic dramas. The formula is simple: Man and woman from opposite sides of the track, but the heart displayed by the director and screenwriter, coupled with the great acting, give this movie a compelling and honest vitality that is irresistible. Great performances by Jami Gertz, Joe Bologna, Sheryl Lee and a solid performance by Dylan McDermott are strongly supported by a pacing and dynamic by director David Morris that keeps things unpredictable, yet comprehensible. The acting job done by Toby's three friends was commendable, too. One tactic that helped make this movie so effective was the displays of open-heartedness when we least expect it: a: McDermott's line "I almost forgot to tell you how beautiful you look in that dress", after they had had a big argument and all seemed lost. b: Bologna's dialogue at dinner, with Toby, toward the end of the picture, when he told her how perfect she is and always was, in his eyes. Bologna had me laughing out loud at times. I cheered at the end, when Gertz issued a one-word response to McDermott: "Me." That was perfect. Great soundtrack, too.
Review of Jersey Girl
