Ronald Harwood (1934–2020)

A very enjoyable film about retired musicians living in a care home, planning for a gala concert. Lots of energy, even if not a whole lot of plot. Maggie Smith is wonderful as Jean, who doesn't want to sing, while her friends hope to persuade her.

Some humour, some poignancy, and even a low-key romantic thread. Unsuitable for children as there are many innuendoes and a few instances of 'strong' language - but unlikely to interest them anyway. The rating is 12 (PG-13 in the US).

Definitely show more recommended if you like character-based films with a lot of music, particularly opera.

Longer review here: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2021/11/quartet-maggie-smith.html show less

Richmond Theatre, prior to West End run - Not sure how successful it'll be in Central but it's a fine play, although it does make me want to just want to see Ken Stott perform Lear in full.

A Jew rides out WWII in Warsaw.

It's well made, but the script is pretty unexceptional. I was bored a lot, and when I wasn't bored (there is a lot to appreciate), I still would rather have been doing something else. This movie is a perfect example of why I hate the phrase "based on a true story." It's not exactly the same holocaust movie that gets made every few years - the first hour or so is, but then it takes a slightly different turn. But still, there's no creativity or craft to this show more story, and no room for it.

Concept: C
Story: C
Characters: C
Dialog: B
Pacing: C
Cinematography: B
Special effects/design: A
Acting: A
Music: B

Enjoyment: C minus

GPA: 2.7/4 show less

A dying Shakespearian actor disappoints everyone in the end. A life-time performance from Albert Finney. Interesting to think of finney playing the part of tom jones as you watch this movie.