Oliver Twist in USA?

Rating: 7/10 (2 October 2011)

This ain't no perfect movie, but it has some original elements. Although it is said to be somehow like a modernized version of the classic tale "Oliver Twist", I still think it is different enough to be original. And besides, the similarities with "Oliver Twist" are only in certain and very specific details.
Even thought the scenario is decent, it's just another typical movie set in New York city. There ain't no lack of American cinema and I am developing an increasing interest in foreign cinema. Am I getting tired of American cinema? Perhaps...
The movie tells the tale of Evan Taylor / August Rush, a child with a passion and gift for music. He can conduct an orchestra not unlike Tom Cat in "Tom and Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl". He can conduct an orchestra just as well as he can play guitar and organ. Besides, there's poetry in his words, his music and his soul. The character is very well portrayed by Freddie Highmore.
The soundtrack divides me. Whatever August Rush plays (guitar, organ and classical music) is lovely and Lyla Novacek plays violin beautifully but anything that Louis Connelly plays is sonorous pollution.
Keri Russell plays music better than she acts. Robin Williams plays a dubious character, not unlike Fagin from the Oliver Twist tale. Not the most peculiar role I've ever seen him playing, but positively one of his most peculiar. The acting is, however, typically Robin.