Review of Quartet (2012) by Mark F — 08 Oct 2013

Gentle, sweet, light comedy set in a beautiful retirement home for musicians. There's a sense of pathos watching people who were once young, talented and full of life realising that their days are drawing to a close and coming to terms with their decline.

I particularly felt that during the end credits when it showed photos of the supporting cast in their performing heydays. And I guess, also knowing that Billy Connolly was diagnosed with Parkinsons soon after this was made.

In a sense it's Philip Larkin's Ambulances on film. It's beautiful on the ears - the music is gorgeous, uplifting and somehow soul-calming. It's beautiful on the eyes too - every outdoor scene reminding me of what a green and pleasant island we live on.

And all in all, pleasant is what this movie is. A very pleasant way to spend an hour and forty minutes.