Great Music

If you had to guess the content of Music Within from its generic "inspirational" poster, you might be able to ascertain the end of the movie, but little else. And you certainly wouldn't expect to see the civil-rights-supporting protagonist (Ron Livingston, forever associated with Office Space) talk about circle jerks, hit a joint or buy his first suit with the aid of three persuasive stripper friends. Squeaky clean, this film is not - and it's a welcome change for the genre.

The film, based upon the true story of civil-rights pioneer Richard Pimentel (Livingston), takes viewers through his lifetime of accomplishments for people with disabilities. Unable to afford college, Pimentel tries to raise some money by joining the army - but after losing his hearing in the Vietnam War, Pimentel becomes involved with disabled veterans, attempting to find them work and employment.

But while Pimentel devotes his life to helping the disabled, this film is about Pimentel the man, and his life as a whole. We do see him bring about positive change for the disabled community, but Pimentel's other life experiences definitely do not take a backseat.

The film - which aptly stays away from stereotypical, Kodak moments - works well because of both relative novice Steven Sawalich's (Sunday in the Park with George and Phil) direction and the unpretentious script. The dialogue is funny and surprising, avoids sermons and lends itself to a well-structured plot.

And thankfully, the actors don't overdo it. Livingston has a regular-guy appeal that serves him well here - he's always likable, even when he's not doing nice things. Michael Sheen (Blood Diamond), who plays Pimentel's lifelong friend Art, a genius with cerebral palsy, also delivers a strong performance that is impressive both physically and emotionally. Lastly, Yul Vazquez (War of the Worlds) is also moving as the quietly desperate but explosively angry Mike Stolz, a fellow Vietnam vet.

The film is also aided by a commendably restrained and gentle score by James T. Sale (Taking 5), which doesn't rely on violin swells to display emotions. And an awesome soundtrack also helps, featuring mostly classic rock such as the Doobie Brothers and eclectic tracks such as "Mas Que Nada" by Sergio Mendes.

But Music Within isn't all perfect. One of the few substantial problems with the film is the subplot with Pimentel's neglected wife, a bland role played by an equally emotionless Melissa George (30 Days of Night). Whether or not this subplot is true in Pimentel's real life, on film, it drags along - if cut, the movie would have fared very well without it.

And while the film is commendable for its no-bull approach to the subject matter, it sometimes feels forced. For example, the disgusted looks and discriminatory comments of toward the disabled - which certainly do happen in real life - come off as unbelievable.

These quibbles are relatively minor, though, as Music Within avoids sappiness and, thanks to strong acting, music and direction, doesn't come off as overly emotional. You may not have known who Richard Pimentel was before walking into the film, but after, you certainly won't forget him.

dan.benamor@gmail.com