Some movies get criticized for manipulating emotions.



But if it does that well, what's the problem?



Such a film is "August Rush," a drama about three people connected by
their love of music -- among other things.



The title character is a boy played by Freddie Highmore ("Finding
Neverland"). Unhappy in an orphanage, he runs away and finds a
questionable mentor in Robin Williams, as a shyster who uses
musically inclined children to make street-corner profits.



Unfolding at the same time is the story of cellist Keri Russell
("Waitress," "Felicity") and rock musician Jonathan Rhys-Meyers ("The
Tudors," "Match Point"), reunited after their one-night stand years
ago. Gee, what could their connection to the youngster possibly be?



Even if that's an easy guess, "August Rush" has genuine feeling that
today's movies offer too rarely. Equally commendable is the effort by
director Kirsten Sheridan (daughter of "In the Name of the Father"
filmmaker Jim Sheridan) and her cast to get the music aspect right.
The actors really do look musically skilled, not an easy thing to
pull off. Terrence Howard also fares well as a social worker
concerned with August's well-being.



If you want a dose of heart at the movies this holiday season, give
your own heart to "August Rush." You won't be disappointed.



(Rated PG)