Fisher Stevens ends up being quite a nasty villain. After his fine performance in "Early Edition" years ago, I thought he was flat at first, but he later does quite a good job.
Of the kids, Lauren Ashley Carter does the best job as the somewhat depressed Natalie, who gradually shows a more pleasant side. My favorite moment was one where she showed why she's not a performer. I thought all the younger actors did a good job, in particular Graham Patrick Martin as the bully Garrett, who also turns out better than we first thought.
Barry Corbin is the real standout as a janitor who gives advice to the kids.
I also thought the actress playing Mo's poor assistant did a good job but I have no idea who she is from looking at the credits. But you have to like her and feel sorry for her.
The actor playing JR's father also does a good job, but I don't remember the man's name.
I didn't care for the music, but I'm not in the target audience here. The kids are all talented. Young people will probably like it. The music videos are well done, and "Refund Desk" is a lot of fun.
JR actually does music I sort of like in the chapel, with a solo piano, but it's not part of the competition. Someone else plays a nice blues guitar, but again, it's not quite what I enjoy.
It's a worthwhile movie with good lessons.
