Quartet (DVD)

Reviews

"Quartet" by Micky B - 4 July 2013

Directed by Dustin Hoffman (who doesn't actually appear in the film himself,) this truly delightful British fantasy-comedy-drama stars Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, and Billy Connolly.The plot is very simple: its an adult variation of the kind of “let's put on a show!” feature that old-time stars like Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland were churning out in large numbers at MGM, following World War II. The setting is an old age home for musicians (yes, there <i>is</i> actually such a place in England!) where a collection of geriatrics plan to put on a concert in aid of raising enough money to keep the home running for at least anoter year. Three members of a formerly successful quartet already reside there, and there is great excitement when the news comes through that the fourth member, Jean Horton (Maggie Smith) is shortly to pay the home a visit. However, Jean makes it quiute clear that she is not in the least bit interested in joining the group for a kind of farewell reunion – even though it will be for a good cause! Please note that this is a difficult film to rate, as on the one hand it is a <i>must-see</i> for anybody in the 55-plus age group, (though others will enjoy it too!) However, the younger and non-musical children may get bored with it – though this is just as well, because there is a generous smattering of bad language throughout (yes, <i>including the “f” word!) I personally feel that many of the younger generation claim not to like the opera and other more serious music, in that they have never experienced it well-sung and played. Me, I <i>LOVED</i> every moment of this picture!