Synopsis: Twelve years ago, on a moonlit rooftop above Washington Square, Lyla Novacek (Keri Russell), a sheltered young cellist, and Louis Connelly (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), a charismatic Irish singer-songwriter, were drawn together by a street musician's rendition of "Moondance" and fell in love. After the most romantic night of her life, Lyla promised to meet Louis again but, despite her protests, her father rushed her to her next concert--leaving Louis to believe that she didn't care. Disheartened, he found it impossible to continue playing and eventually abandoned his music while Lyla, her own hopes for love lost, was led to believe months later that she had also lost their unborn child in a car accident. Years passed with neither of them knowing the truth. Now, the infant secretly given away by Lyla's father has grown into an unusually gifted child (Freddie Highmore) who hears music all around him and can turn the rustling of wind through a wheat field into a beautiful symphony with himself at its center, the composer and conductor. He holds an unwavering belief that his parents are alive and want him as much as he wants them. Determined to search for them, he makes his way to New York City. There, lost and alone, he is beckoned by the guitar music of a street kid playing for change and follows him back to a makeshift shelter in the abandoned Fillmore East Theater, where dozens of children like him live under the protection of the enigmatic Wizard (Robin Williams). He picks up a guitar for the first time and unleashes an impromptu performance in his own unique style. Wizard names him August Rush, introduces him to the soul-stirring power of music and begins to draw out his extraordinary talent. Wizard has big plans for the young prodigy but, for August, his music has a more important purpose. He believes that if his parents can hear his music, they will find him. Unbeknownst to August, they have already begun that journey.

"August Rush" is a beautiful, heartwarming story, full of music, wonderment and charm. I sat there, eyes wide, totally mesmerized by the symphony of emotions and sounds that pervaded this incredible story. Young Freddie Highmore stole the show and really made this musical odyssey come to life, along with excellent emotional performances from the other stars: Keri Russel and Jonathan Rhys Meyers. The movie's only slight downside is that it's just a bit long, but it keeps a steady pace and was thoroughly enjoyable to watch. I'd happily recommend this movie to everyone who loves music and stories of true love, with all the trials and tribulations of overcoming the odds to fight for true happiness and family. I would happily go see this again. 

All in all, I'd give this movie 4 Rhapsodies (out of 5). Re-watch value: HIGH

None. He's on vacation visiting his family for Thanksgiving.

courtesy
www.myspace.com/thepopcornreview