As music becomes less and less of a communal experience these days, something important is getting lost. Its ability to rally people and make them feel part of something larger than themselves is also on the wane. There were times in past when it was a social glue and was almost universally inclusive. With this new paradigm in mind, The Choral has an important underlying message.
Set in 1916 during World War 1, a local choral society is losing members to the war effort. When the choirmaster quits to joins the military, a replacement must be found. The man chosen is Dr Henry Guthrie (Ralph Fiennes), an unlikely choice. His homosexuality, Germanophilia and atheism divide the members of the small town. He is, however, excellent at his job and eventually whips the ragtag group into shape.
This lengthy transition forms the backbone of the film, and as we get to know the townspeople, we see them as inherently kind and thoughtful. The hurdles they overcome are played for humour effect with an undercurrent of social relevance. It’s presented in a way that’s far from preachy. This makes for a rather inviting time.
Quintessential British, with that charm and understatement intact, The Choral touches on a subject that seems to be fading from the public’s consciousness: the life-affirming nature of group led music and its creation. That there is a solidarity that forms when people from different walks of life unite for a common musical purpose is a subject that should never fade from public view.
Rob Hudson
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