This film focuses on a Filipina teen (Eva Noblezada) living in Texas who wants to become a country music singer/songwriter. The drama intensifies with the secondary story that revolves around the undocumented status of her and her mother. The narrative covers both subjects with warmth, even though some of the plot points seem a bit facile. Noblezada’s sweet charm and dynamic voice (she’s an accomplished stage actor) help make the character’s conflicting desires effective. Country singer Dale Watson plays himself, while providing many of the pleasant songs. This project tries to balance the musical angle with the political message and does both in a sometimes simplistic story that still has heart (and some hummable tunes).
(3 / 5)