Demonised

It has been MANY years since I have checked in on this board. It was way back on IMDB.
In any event, I thought I would comment on your thoughts.
I see Williams character as somewhat of a "mixed bag". He did indeed keep the kids off the streets and provide them the basic necessities of life. He kept them safe from predictors who would have been far worse and more damaging to their lives. He taught them music and earning a way to help provide for their "community".
There is however a flip side. His actions would be considered exploitation of the boys. He particularly played favorites with August Rush because of the boys exceptional talent. He wanted that talent all to himself and to prevent August from the opportunity to move forward into a formal education and a serious career in music. He was holding August back. He was holding him back from his goal of finding his parents and his roots.
I know he believed that Augusts pursuit was a waste of time but his actions were like he OWNED August and was using him. August was a far greater talent then he was and was a truly gifted child and needed someone to guide him in a way that he could make a true career in music and share his talent and love for music with the world.
So here we see two different sides to the Wizard. There were aspects to be pitied in a way.
But I did admire that the boys were not being abused in ways that many would have done.
There are two contrasting personalities here.