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Movie Review - August Rush (2007)
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(What this rating means)
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| Director: |
Kirsten Sheridan |
| Starring: |
Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, and Robin Williams |
| Rated: |
PG (for some thematic elements, mild violence and language) |
| Length: |
100 minutes |
| Genre: |
Drama/Fantasy |
| Tagline: |
An incredible journey moving at the speed of sound |
| Studio: |
Warner Bros. |
| Website: |
August Rush |
| Release: |
Bro'vember 21, 2007 |
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PLOT
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August Rush (Highmore) is a musical prodigy who doesn't realize he's a musical genius nor does he know his parents (Meyers and Russell). Oh, and his name really isn't August Rush.
But the little freak can hear music in just about everything, and he thinks if he follows that music then he'll find his birth parents. The harmonious connection of music ensues.
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JOHNNY'S TAKE
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Well, that was a surprise. It's not often I walk into a movie with little to no expectations and walk out with them pleasantly exceeded. The studio's marketing of August
Rush certainly didn't tweak my anticipation. They need to stop freely slapping movies with the "musical" label. Who do they think they are, Ike Turner? This is NOT a musical.
Let's call it "a story told through music," shall we? And it helps that I really enjoyed the music - a nice mixture of folk and rock. Had I been subjected to
over-the-top Broadway numbers then I assure you the tone of this review would be much different.
Even though the film often relies on soaring orchestras and is borderline "too cute" at times, it deserves credit for being unique. Don't bother complaining about the lack
of realism. Duh. It's a movie! Just look at it as a fairy tale told within a real-life scenario and you'll be fine. The sun will rise tomorrow and life will be sweet.
Now, I wouldn't recommend calling members of your local Harley Davidson club and inviting them along, but this is a great, clean film you can enjoy with your family or
sweetie. I'll even admit that by the end of the movie my eyes might have sweated a time or two. So if you're tired of the typical trash that Hollywood shovels on us
then call up mama or grandma and go see how music is the harmonious connection between all human beings.
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ODDS & ENDS
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- Robin Williams' performance as "Wizard" was reportedly inspired by rock star Bono. My sister Amber will be happy to hear this because she kept referring to Williams as a Bono-wannabe.
Bono, however, probably won't be too thrilled because Wizard comes off as a bit of a psycho.
- Keri Russell was in Into the West with Josh Brolin who was in Hollow Man with Kevin Bacon.
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MAMA'S APPROVAL
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I thought I heard one character say G-d**n, but it was in an accent so I could be mistaken. Otherwise, there are a few mild profanities, but nothing that can't be heard on primetime TV.
This one passes mama's approval.
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TRAILER COMPARISON
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If you loved the trailer then you'll love the movie. If you thought the trailer was stupid, well, you might actually end up being surprised by the film.
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THE GIST
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August Rush is a modern day fairy tale told through music. Fun for the whole family.
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