Sweet movie made to display

Rating: 8/10 (1 December 2007)

Let me preface by indicating that I gave the movie a good rating because I DID enjoy it. As all the other comments say, its a fantastical movie, that can come across as too sappy, but overall is very endearing. For me though, while I loved the story, the music, and the characters, the lack of some finishing details diminished the movie's perfect charm.
While some seem to disagree, Robin Williams performance was sub-par. The best elements of the character are strictly from the script, and not his acting. While most of the actors made a lot from a little, he made a little from a lot. It was a very shallow portrayal of a fantastic character. I think he could have really been brilliant, and instead he was merely passable.
Other than Robin Williams the acting quite good. Which probably makes his performance seem worse than maybe it is. Still, the script really didn't go into much character development AT ALL, and yet, you still connected with the characters because of the fantastic performances. Unfortunately, the ending had no script, and I think that even the best acting couldn't really portray all that needed to be done...
I was especially impressed with Terrance Howard, who played the social worker. He really wasn't given much of a character, and yet he made it work. The character connected with the audience and was very well acted. (Though how he knew August, who he realized is Evan, was performing at the concert isn't explained, maybe he'd seen the posters too? Thats a 2 second clip that could've been added.) I also wish there was more development for the boy, Arthur. It was definitely compelling to see him struggle between jealousy and friendship, but it wasn't really played out well. Just suddenly he has a final change of heart, saves August, then shows up at the concert to listen. The actor did a good job with the few scenes and fewer lines. There just could've been a bit more.
Oh, does Louis even realize that August is his son? If so, that's an awful lot for him to piece together. If not, that's a rather disappointing ending. If he did piece it together, there was certainly no "OH MY GOD, THAT'S MY SON!" moment. While I can take it for granted that neither Lyla or August seemed surprised at the appearance of each other, Louis had no way of expecting it. And like I said, at least for him there really should have been a "whoah" moment. Anyway, doesn't he still think that Lyla is married? Its a real simple thing that could've been wrapped up neatly with a short dialogue or even a few gestures and facial expressions. But all the acting at the very end is just doe-eyed wonder and happiness.
But anyway, it really was a very cute movie. I think maybe 5-10 minutes more of character development and a pinch of wrap up at the ending would have really sealed the movie and made it that much better. I totally recommend seeing it, even if the "sweet" factor is over the top and yet not completely satisfying. Expect the warm fuzzies when you leave the theater and a sudden desire to play guitar.
(Who else suspects percussion guitar to suddenly become incredibly popular???)