Boychoir

I am a fan of so much about this movie starting with its director François Girard, whose sensitive fingerprints are all over this lovely film, to what a perfect cast, to shepherd Ben Ripleys story which burrows deep into your heart.

This is one of Dustin Hoffman's best roles in ages, and it is a joy to see him again at the top of his game. Kathy Bates is exceptional as always, and the rest of the supporting cast brought life and heart to their performances

The new young star Garrett Wareing is already showcasing serious acting chops in this his first role and manages quite genuinely to evoke the transitory nature of life starting with his parents all the way to the very thing that saves him in this movie … the voice of an angel that will ultimately change. But isn't that what life is about? It's not what you deal with but how you deal with it? This film teaches us that lesson with a spoonful of sugar and the heavenly voices of the American Boy Choir. I was brought to tears more than once and the ending was genuinely heart touching and inspirational.

I saw this at Toronto and the movie was a true "crowd pleaser" in the very best sense. It received a sustained standing ovation.

A wonderful family film, and a holiday excursion into the heavens because wait until you hear not only the American Boy choir sing but also Josh Groban's song "Mystery of Your Gift" at the end of the film. It was breathtakingly beautiful and Oscar worthy.

I highly recommend it.