Movie: “August Rush” 8/10

Staring: Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Robin Williams

Plot: Evan Taylor is on a search through New York City to find his parents. As Evan travels through the city alone, he meets a man called Wizard, who discovers Evan has a real burst of musical talent. Evan’s parents take on separate searches to find their son after learning he is alive.

The Good: Freddie Highmore’s performance helps the audience connect with the deeper emotions of the film. Robin Williams, who plays Wizard, not only offers several comedic moments but twists his usual portrayal of the all-around good guy to become a darker character. The scene of Keri Russell having to walk away from her lover and son makes this film an incredible drama.

The music ranges from gospel to orchestral. Sometimes, the addition of music can get in the way of a movie, but in this film, the most amazing scene was watching Evan conduct a symphony as a child prodigy. There is not an overabundance of music, and each musical number is placed in tune with the story to keep the film flowing.

The Bad: There are a few slow moments, and it’s awkward when Evan Taylor/August Rush finds shelter from the cold under a little girl’s bed. The film also has cheesy moments, such as Evan’s parents mysteriously finding each other after being separated.

The Low-down: Highmore proves that he could take on a more serious roll than his 2005 debut as Charlie in Tim Burton’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Highmore’s acting skills are captivating, and paired with Russell, the scenes between the two have great intensity.

Meyers’ voice stuns the audience. His performance is so good that he seems to jump out from the film and begin singing to each individual person.

The film is worth watching.