LOS ANGELES – The flying elephant isn't the only charming youngster in "Dumbo."

Tim Burton's live-action remake (in theaters Friday) of the 1941 animated Disney classic features the touching human story of circus stalwart Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his two children who befriend Dumbo: Milly (played by Nico Parker, 14) and Joe (Finley Hobbins, 11).

How green are the two child stars? While sitting down to speak to USA TODAY together, Hobbins has to consult his co-star in a conspiratorial whisper before answering a question about his acting debut.

"Oh, yes, this is my debut," Hobbins finally answers. "I didn't quite know what 'debut' meant."