Words Robb Sheppard

Set in a small Yorkshire town in 1916, Alan Bennett’s first original screenplay in over forty years introduces a community losing its men – and a choir losing its sopranos, altos, and tenors – to the front line.

In an act of desperation, the  choir’s committee takes an ambitious gamble on the local youth and a marvellous, yet unorthodox choirmaster to lead them.

Ralph Fiennes stars as the stern, atheist, and, most concerning of all to the local community, German-speaking Dr Guthrie, who begins shaping the choir from those too young to join up.

In anyone else’s hands, this could be a gloomy affair. But in Bennett’s inimitable style, there’s humour beneath the bleakness as Dr Guthrie challenges conventions and strives against stereotypes in a stirring celebration of British spirit and the power of music.

Director Nicholas Hytner is well-versed in Bennett’s work and in their fourth cinematic collaboration again balances the wit, heart for history, and emotional heft to ensure this new story sings. As always, Bennett’s script attracts a chest of national treasures, with Mark Addy, Alun Armstrong, and Simon Russell Beale skilfully rounding out the supporting cast.

In today’s turbulent times, The Choral serves as a heartwarming reminder that no matter the time period, there’s always light to be found if you know where to look for it.

Just keep calm and carry on singing.

The Best Of Bennett

The Madness Of King George

This Oscar and BAFTA-nominated historical comedy sees the King's court scheme to remove him frmo power due to his increasingly bizarre behaviour. With Bennett's signature wit and all-star cast, it's a right, royla rib-tickler.

The History Boys

An eccentric teacher pushes his gifted students towards Oxbridge, teaching the other staff a thing or two in the process in a coming-of-age classic that launched the career of one James Corden.

The Lady In The Van

Laughs and life lessons abound when Bennett himself befriends a transient woman, portrayed by the late, great Maggie Smith, who decides to move in... onto his driveway. Perfect Sunday viewing.