If there is anything I've learned, it's that things can get better or worse, depending on what you do. Kids of today seem to have no respect for their parents, let alone anyone or anything else. But for those of us who still have at least one parent, this amazing tale of a father who want only the best for his son, and his son who is confused by the vision of his father, and his own visions altogether is one one that you cannot afford to miss. This is what the true meaning of Together really means.

Xiaochung is a young boy whom has been declared a violin prodigy. He's called upon in many instances just to play. He's even asked to play while a woman is giving birth, so as to speed up the infant's delivery. Now, Xiaochung's father, Liu Cheng is a cook-for-hire and is quite the braggart when it comes to Xiaochung, as he wants to find a teacher who can take Xiaochung to stardom. Xiaochung is neither excited or displeased really.... he just likes to play his violin. After saving up enough money, the two decide to head to Beijing in search of a teacher... the infamous Professor Jiang.

The performance in that Xiaochung gives in Beijing has everyone sitting on the edge of their seats as Xiaochung masterfully executes every note in the piece he's playing. Unbeknownst to our intrepid twosome that Professor Jiang is there, soaked up in Xiaochung's performance. Liu Cheng spots the professor, and later confronts him, begging to take Xiaochung on as his pupil. Reluctantly - because if the lack of previous good pupils - the Professor agrees. Xiaochung and the professor get along very well after a rather shaking beginning. From here on, this movie is an emotional rollercoaster of the heart. Going into this any further would really ruin the story for you.

I came across this movie one night on WHYY PBS (Channel 12 for other Pennsylvanians), and immediately became engrossed with it, only to find out that downstairs in the kitchen, my Mom had been watching the SAME movie! She loved it, and I told her I was going to find this movie on DVD and do a review. I must say, the tears you'll shed will be ones of joy. This movie will leave you speechless for about an hour or two. Given the societal differences between America and China, the message of Together comes through, regardless of where you're from, how old you are, or where your son or father are at the moment. You'll pick up that phone, call your family, and tell them you love them. Yes, it's THAT emotional. Enjoy.