jmkaganmd
Here is a film that when you leave with friends you can actually sit down and have a conversation about it.The passion of the people in this exciting competition and the story each tells through the film offer many emotions. The music is wonderful.As the competition unfolds you find yourself involved and perhaps even wondering or rooting for one of these truly talented people who in their "spare time" just happen to have a passion for playing the piano. The director allows each of the stories to unfold without bias.Go see and listen -- you'll have a good time.
leslie hawke
As soon as this film is available on DVD I am going to buy twenty copies to keep on hand to give to my over 40 friends on their birthdays. The underlying message is "go for it!". In an age when many gifted people consider themselves failures if they don't reach the world fame level in their field, it's a refreshing reminder of the power and pleasure of art for art's sake. "They Came to Play" was a delightful peek, for a non-musician like myself, into the intriguing and whimsical minds of the musically gifted. It was also an extraordinary feat of editing. It would be interesting to know how many contestants the filmmaker followed in order to come up with the final set of featured individuals.
mrneagu-1
"They came to play" is as uplifting as it is inspiring, as funny as it is touching. The movie establishes a personal and intimate relationship with its characters unique personalities indeed. Its flawless change of perspective from the main characters, everyday individuals with real-life problems, and a passion to play the piano at the highest level, to their families, and the awed audience of the Van Cliburn Classical piano competition for Amateurs creates a perfect pace for this documentary and involves the movie audience in this incredible experience of fulfilling dreams in spite of life's many obstacles. For music lovers, the performances and musical choices are an exquisite treat. Without giving away the stories that this movie tells so piercingly, the choice of characters and participants is beautifully varied, and any viewers may find a little bit of themselves in these incredible individuals. Doubtlessly, this movie is an inspiration for those afflicted with a life-long love for music, regardless of where life has taken them. Beyond filling musical hearts with joy, however, this labor of love is so caringly crafted that it also warms the souls of non-musicians. The message is clear, whatever your background, whatever your interest, live your dream. Enrich your life at home, in your family, at work, and the lives of those around you, by tenaciously pursuing that passion that is uniquely you; like a true lover would.
Douglas Freeman
I saw the film at a screening here in Los Angeles last year. I'll confess, I know the both the director and editor and am very fond of them and their work. Regardless, this is a brisk, captivating, and compelling depiction of an "amateur" competition that will knock the socks off anyone with a pulse. These are everyday folks who possess--or are possessed by--herculean skills, and the film really gets inside them...quirks, warts, and all. You're as likely to squirm with unease as you are squeal with delight, and be equally gratified either way. This is a wonderful film about conviction and obsession, a joyride through the artistic soul.
AD
