Music Within

This is basically the story behind the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). It is also a very funny story and a very well told story.

Once again, the supporting cast of relative unknowns upstages and outshines the "box office". Ron Livingston is a much better actor than his work indicates. Except for his great work in Band of Brothers, he is almost always cast as the same basic character. Shame on his agent.

The real stars of the story are Yul Vázquez, Michael Sheen, and, though she has very few lines and is almost unrecognizable, Rebecca De Mornay. Melissa George also does a wonderful job as the only main character without a significant disability.

If you have ever walked past a disabled person and ignored them, you should see this movie. If you have ever looked the other way instead of making eye contact with a disabled person, you should see this movie. If you worry about your ability to employ, work with, or work for someone with disabilities, you should see this movie.

Just as I've recommended the movie Crash be used to conduct diversity training in every workplace in the US, I now recommend Music Within be used to train every employer and employee in the US in sensitivity training. Tilting At Windmills should also be read by everyone, regardless.

This movie is instructive without being preachy. It is funny without being disrespectful. It is heart-warming without being saccharine. It tells a real story with feeling like a documentary.

Watch this movie with someone who may be made uncomfortable by the message, and you will have done your part in helping make a difference in someones life.