Young@Heart, Stephen Walker's movie about a chorus of senior citizens singing rock music is a delightful and uplifting, if a little disturbing, documentary. The two dozen or so 70- 80- and 90-year-old amateur singers illustrates that music can be a reason to live. And when you listen to them sing "Stayin Alive" by the BeeGees, you realize that the lyrics takes on a more poignant meaning.
Young@Heart began in 1982 as a project for the elderly in Massachusetts and the group has gained an international reputation, performing several times in Australia, Europe and Canada.
The movie focuses on a rigorous two-month rehearsal for a 2006 concert in Northampton, Mass., where the chorus, directed by a demanding Bob Cilman, must learn difficult new songs, such as "Yes, We Can, Can," sung by the Pointer Sisters with different rhythms and at least 71 cans and "Schizophrenia ," by Sonic Youth. That the group is willing to tackle such contemporary music when they prefer classical, opera and show tunes, says a lot for their willingness to challenge the edges of their comfort zones.
Late in the making of Young@Heart, two members, Bob Salvini and Joe Benoit, died within a week of each other. Although neither death comes as a surprise, it is to the group's credit that they understand that performing is a way to honor their comrades.
Dylan Thomas wrote: 'Do not go gently into that good night...Rage against the dying of the light.' The members of Young@Heart have taken that to heart and they celebrate living with their music. If you don't mind laughing and crying at the same time, you'll love this film. (4/11/08)
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