Do you remember the first time you heard Johnny Cash cover Nine Inch Nails' Hurt? Listening to senior citizens belt out uncharacteristic rock songs in the wonderfully charming (and inspirational) documentary Young@Heart sort of reminded me of listening to Cash sing that song. These sweet-natured individuals give a wide range of familiar songs an entirely new life.

This heartfelt, documentary follows the Young@Heart chorus, a sort of senior citizen glee club comprised of individuals whose average age is 81. Much of the film chronicles stern but lovable chorus conductor Bob Climan's attempt at teaching these adorably charming seniors songs that most people their age would scoff consider offensive noise. To give away the names of the numerous, popular songs the chorus is asked to perform, would be to ruin one of the many delightful surprises in this touching film.

As light and breezy as Young@Heart is, the film doesn't shy away from the many problems that affect these lively souls. The film does go into some tough areas, but the proceedings are handled with dignity and class. This is a wonderful look at the power of music, but more importantly, Young@Heart is a film that embraces the golden years. Getting older doesn't necessarily have to be feared and dreaded, as these spirited folks so deftly demonstrate.

The film is a bit long, and I couldn't help but think that when the Young@Heart chorus performs for a group of prison inmates, these jail-birds are playing to the cameras a bit. Still, the fact remains, I was really moved by this film. When one chorus member performs Coldplay's "Fix You" as a tribute to an old friend, I was nearly moved to tears.

I absolutely adore this movie. It's easily one of the best of the year, although a great deal of your liking it will depend on your love of music. Like the underappreciated gem New York Doll, Young@ Heart is a sincere, heartfelt look at the power of music and a stirring tribute to some truly inspirational individuals who refuse to let a little thing like getting old get them down.