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Family dynamics are never easy—whether you’re a tired mom, a frustrated teenager, or a child of aging parents. And director Janet Grillo piles on the trials and complications as she follows two struggling families whose paths cross in Jack of the Red Hearts.
Jack of the Red Hearts stars AnnaSophia Robb as Jack, a troubled 18-year-old who’s on the run from her probation officer, trying to find a way to get her younger sister out of foster care. In order to make the money she’ll need to care for her sister, Jack cons her way into a job as a live-in companion for an autistic 11-year-old named Glory (Taylor Richardson). But while she takes the job for the money and the room, she soon finds that she cares about Glory—and the rest of her family, too.
Jack of the Red Hearts is a story about two very different families who are struggling to find their way. Jack may be a young woman with a difficult past and criminal record, but she has one soft spot: her little sister. She’ll do anything to keep what’s left of her family together—even if that means lying, cheating, stealing, or faking qualifications to get a job caring for a child with special needs. Her rough edges definitely make her a difficult character to like—because her carelessness, indifference, and inexperience could put an innocent girl in danger. But, as she gets to know the family (and, especially, this strong, remarkable little girl), she gradually begins to take responsibility for her actions. And, in the process, she slowly redeems herself with audiences.
Her new employers, meanwhile, have devoted so much time, money, and energy to Glory’s care that they’ve lost so much. They’re worn out and on-edge—and they’re no longer able to connect with one another. But as they begin to place more of the responsibility in what they believe to be a professional’s hands, they’re able to find themselves (and each other) again. And that’s a good reminder for all of us—because we all need to take a step back and reevaluate our direction from time to time.
This is certainly a sweet film—one with some stand-out performances and touching moments—and the story comes together just as it should. But it takes a while to get settled—and the characters can be frustrating. And, in the end, it’s lacking the kind of punch that would make it unforgettable.
Jack of the Red Hearts is a moving film about sacrifices and family. Most parents—even those with perfectly normal kids—will be able to relate to the challenges and frustrations. But while it’s worth seeing, it’s simply not as powerful as it could have been.
