The Chorus [Les Choristes]

Christophe Barratier, France, 2004, 96 minutes

This remake of 1945 sentimental favourite La Cage Aux Rossignols tells the story of Clement Mathieu (Gerard Jugnot), a failed musician turned teacher who's just been appointed to a no-hope boarding school - known colloquially as "The Rock Bottom" - that is really little better than a borstal.

Mathieu soon comes to disagree with the brutal methods employed by headmaster Rachin (Francois Berleand) and attempts to win the hearts and minds of his charges through a kinder, more understanding approach. This only leads the children to mock him with a song but, noting their enthusiasm for this, Mathieu then starts a choir and discovers that one of his devilish charges, Pierre Morhange (Jean-Baptiste Maunier), possesses an angel's voice.

In reviewing this plot you may be forgiven for expecting a sentimental sludge, but this is thankfully not the case. The film has a patina of nostalgia and idealism, but this is more the result of the storyteller.s point of view than a deliberate manipulation. Deep emotion is stirred within the audience from the profoundly beautiful voices and music produced by the choir.

The Chorus, a heartwarming hit in France last year is another attempt to resurect the phoenix of the French family cinema. With references to French classics such as Vigo's Zero de conduite it is a perfect feel-good night-out film.

Review by Cadavre Exquis
Written for EUFS Programme Autumn 2005