Good Morning Lovelies, 

The Choral is a film that slipped past many of us when it hit UK cinemas. Yet, it is a feature that brings a sense of joy to all of those that watch it. Featuring Ralph Fiennes in a role that is unlike anything many will know him for, he is brought to life by this Alan Bennett script that provides a theatrical story on screen. 

Set in a Yorkshire village of Bennett’s creation, the feature captures the villagers as they try to save their local choral society from being defeated by the loss of their best voices to WWI. With their conductor sent off to fight, the elder male members of the choir decide to bring in a new force. One who doesn’t hit it off completely with all due to his long term stay in Germany and love for German composers. 

Yet, as the film continues the villagers and Fiennes' conductor figure soon build a relationship that captures us all. Especially when the music within the feature comes to life. An element that allows for the story to capture each of the cast's characters' stories individually, as they tell of how the war has affected their lives.

Each moment provides a sense of emotional turmoil whilst watching, as you often find that you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The moments of pure upset are soon eased with the comedic undertones of one character's script or actions. It is presented in a Sunday night drama that if shown on TV would have captured an audience like no other. 

Sadly, the film doesn’t always hit though. There are times when moments feel unnecessary. Times when they would have fitted better on a stage then on the screen. This makes it hard to sometimes really zone in with the full plot of the story. Yet, it doesn’t put you off watching, as the moments don’t last for long. 

Overall, The Choral is a delight to watch with only a few hiccups that are soon fixed by Bennett and his screenplay. If you are looking for an uplifting story that you will find with this film, especially if you love a great drama! 

4 Stars

Joey X