User Reviews

This was the two time Oscar winning actor Dustin Hoffman's debut as director and he played it safe, if that's what he was going for, by picking a successful play by fame writer Ronald Harwood who also wrote the screen adaptation. Hoffman, who is well known for his meticulous and focused approach to acting, no doubt approached this new project with the same diligence, and who better to have in one's cast than well established and consummate professionals like the key players, if you're aiming for outstanding results. Well, he succeeded; there is little we can fault 'Quartet' with except one detail which I'll mention a little further down. So bravo director Hoffman.

I thoroughly enjoy British comedies, whether they be the outrageous kind or the light variety; this one is of the light variety and thus we get to watch some solid acting in the scenes that are more for character development than for humour. Leading the pack are Maggie Smith, Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins, Tom Courtenay and Michael Gambon; that's what I meant by established and consummate professionals. The supporting cast was also up to the task.

The storyline is straightforward; we are introduced to four of the five key players at the beginning of the film as they are rehearsing for an annual gala at the retirement home for musicians called Beechum House, but that also includes singers and of course fame director Cedric Livingston, played by Michael Gambon. Livingston is a pompous and egotistical character with a slight short term memory handicap, so the rest of the residents are not at all intimidated by Cedric, starting with singer Wilf Bond, played by Billy Connolly, who only refers to Livingston as Sid, something that tends, only momentarily of course, to get under the director's skin. Connolly's character gets away with flirting, he does mention he thinks of sex every seven seconds, as if that was another art he enjoys, like nobody's business. Cissy and Reginald, played respectively by Pauline Collins and Tom Courtenay are two other members of a quartet that was supposed to perform at the gala until the fourth member became unavailable. That vacant spot becomes the central focus of the group when a new arrival at the home shows up. By the way, home is such an understatement for the wonderful domain that is Beechum, an ideal setting where I could only hope to end up myself; a stately manor with sprawling greens and wooded trails, nestled in the English countryside. That new arrival is diva Jean Horton, played by Maggie Smith; she and Reggie were once married. The plot thickened just right. The four singers once sang as a quartet, a performance unsurpassed by any other since; however, Jean was never to perform again in her retirement. The plot thickened some more.

Maggie Smith's presence could not stop me from realizing there is a movie genre in that a bunch of talented and aged professionals actors, the Brits in particular, when grouped for a movie project are what one would call grey cinema; she did such good work in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, I looked forward to seeing Quartet even more.

Now about the detail that brings the only blemish to this whole thing, as I wrote earlier, is that the annual gala, this one in particular is suppose to be a make or break fundraiser; without its financial success, Beechum faces closure. There is nothing throughout the movie that even hints at why they are facing such a predicament, and if that wasn't enough, the audience we see at the gala in the end could hardly explain how the home could possibly be saved or have expected it, by such a diminutive venue. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the movie enough and those who like light comedy should as well.

This was directed by the great actor Dustin Hoffman. When I checked I was surprised to see this is his first feature length movie as director. The result is great and judging from the comments in the DVD extras the veteran British actors found him super to work with.

The story is simple, a group of retired musicians, including professional opera singers, are living happily in a retirement home just for their kind. Each year they plan a gala performance to help raise money to keep the retirement home open.

Then a new resident shows up, she is a former operatic diva but also the former wife of one of the men there. And, we learn early that she likely cheated on him and he never forgave her. She would make the 4th member of a famous operatic quartet, they want her to perform with them, but she is unwilling, afraid that age and a declining voice would embarrass her. But they persist until she gives in, for the good of the home. And also because she learns a former rival is performing.

The movie has an all-star cast, including Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay , Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins, and Michael Gambon.

I really like this movie, I am a "retired" musician myself, fortunately still living in my own home, but I had an immediate connection with these characters. Plus, many of the bit parts are played by real retired professional musicians and opera singers, in their 70s and 80s. In a nice touch the ending credits showed the musician or singer in the movie, along with a younger photo and description of their career.

SPOILERS: We the audience find out that the diva (Smith) had cheated on her husband one night after, as she says, too much champagne. Her former husband (Courtenay) overhears her telling this to the other woman, saying also it was the biggest mistake of her life. As the quarter goes on to perform, closing the show, he says "We should get married", they touch hands, the mistakes of the past are forgiven.

Dustin Hoffman debuts as director at the age of 75 with a British cast that's mostly just as old, and with a story that's set at a retirement home for musicians. QUARTET is certainly a film about the old age, however more than exploring deeply things like diseases or having thoughts about that period of life, it focuses on a pleasing (and quite nostalgic) love story.

In the film we get to see a resident being taken to the hospital (with serious health problems) and the dialogs of one of the protagonists indicates how much he hates being old; but all of this becomes secondary material to give some space to the main conflict of the movie: the reencounter between Reginald (Tom Courtenay) and Jean (Maggie Smith), two retired musicians that once were a married couple.

We could think in QUARTET as the opposite film of AMOUR (Michael Haneke, 2012), in which the protagonists are a couple of (retired, as well) music professors. These two are films with elements in common but nevertheless very different from each other – in AMOUR we have actually the end of a marriage.

One of the first elements that stand out is the comedy that's leaded by Billy Connolly, playing the character (Wilf) that hates getting old. Wilf is the classic funny old man who's "chasing" young girls all the time; in specific the beautiful doctor Lucy (Sheridan Smith). The other thing that identifies the movie is, obviously, the music – we get some performances and there's also memorable dialog about the connection between opera and hip-hop, for example.

This music thing becomes part of the structure that follows the formula of the romantic comedies – the idea for a little concert emerges and this could be the successful reunion of four musicians (Reginald, Jean, Wilf and other lady named Cissy) that once shared the glory, as well as a great monetary benefit for the retirement house, but as the formula dictates, a problem will appear.

QUARTET lacks of surprises and as it goes on it becomes more and more conventional, still some refreshing moments can be enjoyed. Besides, the main objective of Hoffman is always something respectable and noble – paying homage to music exponents that now are old persons. In a curious final credits sequence we see pictures with the "before and after" of said exponents, and that confirms the great interest of Hoffman to immortalize with a film the musicians and his very own love for opera and orchestral music.

*Watched it on 19 April, 2013

Star of some of the most radical and trail-blazing films of the '60s, '70s and '80s – and still a bankable character actor throughout the '90s and noughties – Dustin Hoffman finally turns his hand to directing with this adaptation of a Ronald Harwood play. Quartet is an unusual choice of material for Hoffman to tackle as his behind-the-cameras debut. The story could hardly be more 'British' if it tried, but it's a credit to the American director that he manages to handle it with the sort of quaint, quiet restraint that seems to be reserved mainly for European film-makers. It's a very minor and inconsequential film for sure – your life won't be any worse off if you don't see it – but it's amusing, well-acted and entertaining enough to satisfy those who do give it a look.

Beecham House is a grand retirement home for elderly and infirm musicians, run by a sweet-natured young manageress Dr Cogan (Sheridan Smith). Year upon year, the home faces potential closure unless extra funding can be raised… so an annual tradition exists wherein the elderly musicians use their expertise to produce a gala show, an evening of top-notch song and dance, to pull in some much-needed cash. The show is directed by Cedric Livingstone (Michael Gambon), a permanently grumpy and sharp-tongued old curmudgeon who makes Simon Cowell look like Joe Pasquale. This year, Cedric's moodiness may for once be justified, as a combination of reluctance and illness forces many of his star turns to drop out of the gala. Three residents of the home – Reg (Tom Courtenay), Cissy (Pauline Collins) and Wilf (Billy Connolly) – were once part of Britain's greatest operatic quartet. When their fourth member, the fearsome diva Jean Horton (Maggie Smith), is admitted to the home, Cedric hits upon the idea of reuniting them to perform their world-famous, celebrated version of Rigoletto. It sounds a good plan – a surefire money-spinner – but first there are a few issues to be ironed out. Things like Jean's resolutely stubborn determination to never perform again, or the fact that she and Reg used to be married and can now barely stand the sight of each other.

For a film as stagy as this to have a chance (it is based on a play, after all), it requires sterling work from its actors. Here, Hoffman gets uniformly excellent performances from them all. The seasoned old pros – Gambon, Courtenay, Smith, Collins and Connolly – make it look easy. Young Sheridan Smith (better known until now as a supporting player in TV sitcoms like Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps, Gavin & Stacey and Benidorm) gets to show a lot more range for a change, and is surprisingly effective as the head of the home. On this evidence, we will be seeing plenty more of her. Take away the performances and there's not a lot left. The story itself is serviceable but very slight, and all those behind-the-scenes components that go into the making of a film – the photography, the music, the editing, the costume and production design, etc. etc. – are done with a sort of quiet, unintrusive professionalism. Quartet is light, slight, charming viewing. Come 2019, will it be appearing on lists of the essential movies of the decade? No. But within its parameters, it's a perfectly acceptable and enjoyable way to while away 98 minutes.

'Quartet' marks the directing debut for Dustin Hoffman, who is now five years shy of 80, and the two make a great pairing, just like a good wine and cheese. Hoffman took his cues from Ronald Harwood's play and from a documentary from the 80s that showcased a retirement home for famous musicians and singers. With its stellar cast, charming characters, witty dialogue, and amazing music ranging from The Mikado to the Rigoletto, 'Quartet' is not to be missed.

The cast is mostly made up of actual musicians and singers and with the help of a few veteran actors, this story of aging and music should play to not only older audiences, but to younger ones as well. The film takes place at the luxurious Beecham House, which is in the beautiful countryside of England, and looks like it's from a fairy tale from its lavish rooms and fabrics to the many gazebos, ponds, and trails throughout the entire place. Hell, I'd want to live there. Here, music is life, and for it's residents who are all above 75 spend their days and nights playing music and singing still. You see, this is a retirement center for famous opera singers and musicians, which include a famous tenor named Reginald Paget (Tom Courtenay), who still sings and teaches a class to young kids every week on opera. He even mixes in rap to keep his young audience listening, all the while, he feels young too as he can be found listening to various rap songs in his room alone.

As Hoffman's camera moves through the fancy house, we meet Sissy (Pauline Collins), a forgetful yet lovable singer who tries to make everybody's day brighter. Then there is Wilf Bond (Billy Connolly), who was once a singer, but now roams the hallways cracking jokes and trying to get laid whenever he can, but has no success ever. These two characters are so genuine and funny that you can't help but fall instantly in love with them.

A bit of of excitement fills the Beecham House as the annual Verdi Gala is coming up, where most of the fund raising for the year is held to keep the home open and functioning. This is also where all of the tenants of the home get to put on their fancy dresses, get in full costume and make up and put on a show, just like they did when they were younger, all under the direction of Cedric (Michael Gambon), who might be the biggest diva in the room. The other bit of anticipation is that everyone in the house knows that a new tenant will be staying with them, and the rumor is that it is a big star.

Well that star finally arrives and it is the famed opera singer Jean Horton (Maggie Smith), who is reluctant to at first to talk with her former colleagues or participate in any programs, let alone lunch or dinner. It is also much to Reginald's dismay that Jean is there as they were once married, but divorced due to Jean having an affair. However, as they say, the show must go on, and Cedric wants the original 'Quartet' to sing the Rigoletto once more for the Gala, which consists of Sissy, Reginald, Wilf, and Jean. Everybody has agreed with the exception of Jean, and the other three hope they can convince her in time before the Gala to perform once again.

I really enjoyed the fact that Hoffman doesn't mess with the usual stories in telling a tale about retirement homes. There was no talk of the tenants being sad about family members not visiting or even family visiting for that fact. Everything is about the music here and is on a light note, which I loved. As for the performances, Smith and Courtenay are phenomenal. They both prove they still have what it takes to captivate an entire audience and their emotions when they first see each other for the first time in many years, you can literally see the heartache in their eyes and mannerisms. It was amazing. Connolly is my favorite character, as he is the most light hearted and funniest characters in the film. he takes everything in stride and just steals the show. Hoffman's direction is mostly by-the-books, but captures each performance with grace. And stay for the end credit sequence as it shows the actors paired with an old photo of themselves in their youthful prime. I can't wait to see this again.

"Quartet" is a fitting homage to honor those aging artists of our not too distant past who are reduced to spending their final days in a residence for people in their present situation, not being totally incapacitated, but needing extra help managing their lives. Beecham House is a special place, something most of the present dwellers can appreciate and a sharp contrast to some other such institutions catering to the old. The arrival of a legend, soprano Jean Horton, brings back memories to Reggie, her former husband. After all, they have not seen each other in many years. A new drama is about to unfold in their famous split, now in the past.

Cissy Robson and Will Bond, two other notorious opera stars have another idea. They conspire to bring Jane and Reggie back together. Their dilemma is how to go about it, knowing well the animosity and vitriol between the former stars. The idea is to interest Jane into singing again for the upcoming Beecham House gala, which everybody hoe will bring a new infusion of badly needed funds.

Directed by Dustin Hoffman with style, this elegant production does not promise any surprises, but it is entertaining and carefree fun watching the four principals in action. Based on the play by Ronald Harwood, who also adapted it for the screen, this film will resonate with older audiences. Mr. Hoffman had the clever idea of uniting Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Pauline Collins and Billy Connelly to lend their talents to a film that is fun, as well as a pleasant time in the theater.

John De Borman excellent cinematography enhances the film. The musical score by Dario Marianelli blends well with the classical moments of music, comedy and opera heard in the background. Mr. Hoffman shows to be a natural for direction. He pays tribute to many of the great English performers of a bygone era.

A comedy that combines very good actors with a story of senility that shows with sensitivity and humor those difficult moments of seniors, that may become less dramatic in the company of other seniors in similar circumstances, and especially if they share a common pastime. In this case, the director (Dustin Hoffman) of whom I don't know if have directed other films, describes the shared life of famous musicians who in their productive age were well known interpreters in different classical music areas and who, in this last stage of their lives, find recreation and good use of their time,preparing presentations for their peers, for youths and for donors who can help them maintain their standard of living and care with dignity.

You will enjoy the movie for the music, the way they prepare their gala, the dignity with which they perform their roles, their efforts to fight the physical difficulties and not letting that the mental incapacity arrives to their bodies.

Nevertheless, Hofmann could have better exploited the superb quality of the actors, the true story on which it is based and developed a plot less obvious, more complex and with several options for the viewer.

Anyway, it's an entertaining film, enjoying the beautiful music of Verdi, especially his Rigoletto quartet, the characters of the participants, departing with a smile and preparing a reflection on how to prepare to survive this final life step,that probably many of us will also live.