Most unlikely choir boys
The wide success of French film Les Choristes (The Choir Boys) proves that simple is best. Its plot can be described in just one line, but even thousands of words cannot convey the emotions presented in the film.
Les Choristes can be seen as the classical version of popular American feature School of Rock. The film is set in the 1940s. Frustrated classical music teacher Clement Mathieu (Gerard Jugnot) abandons composing music and finds a teaching job at a strict boarding school for troubled boys.
The school's stern headmaster Rachin (Francois Berleand) disciplines them with violence. But by accident, Mathieu realises that the boys actually love music and he decides to tame the boys by teaching them to sing and forming a choir. Through the training, Mathieu discovers the talents of Pierre Morhange (Jean-Baptiste Maunier), and reignites his own passion for music.
You can't help but applaud producer and musician Christophe Barratier for his smart choice of material in his directorial debut. A clearly told, heart-warming tale involving gorgeous children can always melt hearts. It has knocked down blockbusters such as Harry Potter and the Prisoner of the Azkaban and Shrek 2, while topping the box office in France.
In fact, the film is very predictable: an enthusiastic teacher meeting a stubborn headmaster; a bunch of rebellious youngsters trying to bully a teacher before finally understanding each other and, of course, there is a successful performance at the end.
The production side, including the art direction and cinematography, is world class. Those who are not familiar with choir music will also discover how beautiful it sounds.
What attracts the audience most is the growing bond between Mathieu and the students. The character of Mathieu, featuring an excellent performance from Jugnot, is a dream teacher. He is knowledgeable about his subject, funny and stands up for them students without fear, while risking his job.
VERDICT: GO TO THE MOVIES
