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The MPAA has rated Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour G.

After Miley Cyrus's (who is somewhat better known by her Disney Channel character's moniker of Hannah Montana) sold-out concert tour in 2007, the Disney Company made a financially wise decision and brought the television star's performance to movie theaters as a special event. Opening February 1, 2008 in limited release, the concert video took in over $30 million from under 700 theaters. Amazingly, young Miley has far surpassed every other movie's moneymaking ability on a per-screen basis -- including heavyweights like Spider-man and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Although it can be argued this is not a real movie, the only thing stopping this 3D concert from toppling even more box office records is the requirement that it be shown using digital video. Now more theaters are scrambling to get the equipment in place so Miley/Hannah can spread her music across the continent and beyond. And, undoubtedly, if you have a young girl in your home, you are going to be looking at making a donation.

Fortunately, for parents wondering what they are about to subject their children to, this highly produced performance comes across as not only tolerable but even enjoyable, especially if you are able to view it through the eyes of your child. With the current slate of rebel artists spouting caustic lyrics, Miley's upbeat songs and energetic attitude are a welcome change. Even the costumes are conservative, with only a couple of short skirts and sleeveless tops augmenting the wardrobes.

At the young age of fifteen, it's difficult to complain about Miley's somewhat underdeveloped voice. Only one song, a truly tender and moving homage to her grandfather, is performed as a solo -- and we don't get to hear the entire piece. For the rest of the concert, backup singers and overwhelming instruments muddle the songstress's lyrics, helping to cover her vocal limitations but making it frustrating for those of us who would like to know what she is singing about. In every other aspect, this is a first-rate production that shows off the potential of digital cinema.

The concert moves along at a fast pace (too fast for some parents who complained about the high cost for such a short "movie") and is intercut with backstage and rehearsal segments along with interviews with the star's parents. Thanks to the absence of profanities, violence and any smoking or drug use, if you are prepared to pay the price for admission, there's a good chance your young Hannah-fans will come out begging for the DVD.

Beyond the movie ratings: What parents need to know about Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour...

This concert video features Miley Cyrus (best known as Hannah Montana) singing a slate of her tunes in front of a packed audience. The only content issue is some brief, mildly suggestive dancing and a few short skirts and sleeveless tops. (Relative to most other musical celebrities, Miley's costumes are very conservative.) No profanities were noted, although some song lyrics were difficult to hear.

Talk about the movie with your family...

How is "watching" a concert different from attending the same event? Considering the admission price is less, do you think concert videos are a good substitute for the real thing?

Video alternatives...

Of Special Note: Hannah Montana / Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour is based on characters from the Disney Channel television series. Other Disney Channel productions include High School Musical, High School Musical 2 and Jump In.

Rod Gustafson

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