Review of Boychoir (2015) by Larry J — 13 Jan 2016

Something strangely endearing about this film, that as far as I'm aware, has slipped under the radar in its release over the past year. Little did I know of its existence, but through a chance encounter one drizzly winter night, I've now witnessed a hidden gem.

Beginning with a storyline that wouldn't be out of place on a Jeremy Kyle show, with a drunken mother neglecting her child, as his standards and particularly his education slip away as he devotes his precious time to helping her stay sober.

Then one fateful day, his whole life changes in a flash when his want away father forces him to join a boarding school full of gifted singers. A complete outcast due to his deprived upbringing, but also unique because of his natural ability to sing ear piercing notes, we then witness Stetson's rise through the ranks of the academy to become one of the best students it has ever witnessed.

An ultimate story of zero to hero, beating off the school class act, and secret bully, to land prime roles in his place, his fight for survival is both inspiring and emotional to watch. The focus on the young boys journey leaves the star names of Hoffman, Bates, and Izzard in his wake, but naturally these all perform a superb supporting act to the main performance.

I guess it has a very Billy Elliot feel to it, but perhaps with a little more class and decorum in the manner it is portrayed on screen. On a critical note, I'd go as far as to suggest that the hard hitting impact this has upon first viewing wouldn't be able to add any further credibility or excitement on repeat viewing, but it's still definitely a highly recommendable quantity for those seeking a quiet evening, with a nice glass of wine and a quality movie.

It's a real reflective film, and by the time it had finished, I was sure of two things; firstly that I'm glad I never went to boarding school, but secondly, that I really wish I could sing in tune!