Quartet - 3 smiles

If you want to see a serious movie about the ravages of old age, see “Amour.” But if you are looking for something a little more light-hearted, then “Quartet,” directed by Dustin Hoffman, is for you. It involves old regrets, second chances, and late-in-life romance and is set in a home for retired musicians in the English countryside. Beecham House is thrown into an uproar with the arrival of Jean Horton (Maggie Smith), who was once a great diva of the operatic stage and retains both her pride and vanity. Jean’s arrival has come amidst preparation for a musical benefit that will bring much-needed funds for Beecham House’s coffers. Three former members of an operatic quartet, somber Reginald (Tom Courtenay), randy Wilf (Billy Connolly) and dotty Cissy (Pauline Collins), are thrilled at the prospect of performing Verdi’s Rigoletto again, but Jean is haunted by her former stardom and is terrified that she will embarrass herself so she remains the lone holdout. Jean must also resolve her relationship issues with Reg, who was her husband for a short period of time.

And in the background are performances by an entire roster of British performing-arts veterans. Michael Gambon, once the star of Dennis Potter’s groundbreaking miniseries The Singing Detective, has an amusing turn as Beecham House’s resident impresario, with a lightening-quick temper and a ridiculous dressing gown. Gwyneth Jones, a real-life Welsh soprano and top-level opera star, plays Jean’s rival, who sings Puccini’s ‘Vissi’d’arte’ from Tosca at the benefit. “Quartet” also includes former music-hall performers, orchestral violinists and pianists and one-time Sinatra sidemen. There is no sense of tragedy about this film or its people, only a determination to face the final curtain with head held high. As director, Dustin Hoffman has created an enjoyable movie, even if the character development is a little thin. “Quartet” makes sweet music. 12/30/12