
Writer-director Mike Macera’s feature-length debut, Alice-Heart, is a Philidelphia set black and white lowkey comedy. The main character is the titular Alice-Heart (Lissa Carandang-Sweeney), and yes, her full first name is Alice-Heart. This college student feels aimless after dropping out of her senior year due to the hard-a*s ways of Professor Sean Spadden (Gabriel Elmore). Her home life leaves Alice-Heart even more adrift, as her boyfriend, Lyman (Adam McAlonie), breaks up with her. Now she’s hard up for a job for money to pay rent and bills all on her own. The only shining light is her new neighbor, Tony (Tony McCall), whose calm worldview and excellent photography skills allow the two to bond quickly.
Alice-Heart is all heart from start to finish. Yes, the lead is impulsive and even very selfish on occasion. However, the film never judges her too harshly, as Macera invites audiences to understand and experience Alice-Heart’s point of view before judging her. This proves effective as Alice-Heart always seems to mean well, even when she resorts to blackmail. The screenplay does not let the main character get away scot-free, though, as she makes several mistakes. But those moments help Alice-Heart feel more human and real.

“This college student feels aimless after dropping out of her senior year…”
Carandang-Sweeney’s natural chemistry and sweet smile are the secret sauce that makes Alice-Heart endearing to the audience. The actor makes some subtle choices in facial expressions and body language that make the character vulnerable and engaging. McCall’s hilarious, keeping a straight face even in the craziest moments. McAlonie is very good as the self-centered former boyfriend. He’s funny and ridiculous, which is the right mix for the character.
Alice-Heart is a cute little comedy that deals with real issues. The acting is excellent, and the screenplay is smart. Hopefully, Macera’s next film will also knock it out of the park as hard as this did.

"…a cute little comedy..."