The new Netflix film "The Choral," directed by Nicholas Hytner and written by Alan Bennett, offers a contemplative World War I-era drama centered on a choir director tasked with bringing a performance to life amidst the societal disruption of war. Starring Ralph Fiennes as Dr. Henry Guthrie, the film is set in 1916 England, where the ongoing conflict has depleted the local choral society's membership due to the draft.
Alderman Duxbury (Roger Allam), a mill owner and the choral's financier, and his partner Mr. Fyton (Mark Addy) find themselves without a conductor. Their choice for the role, Dr. Henry Guthrie, is controversial. Guthrie is an atheist, gay, and has spent time in Germany, making him a target of suspicion in a nation at war with Germany. Despite these challenges, Guthrie takes on the task of directing Bach's "St. Matthew Passion," but soon finds the work too "Teutonic" for the wartime climate. The group ultimately settles on Elgar's "The Dream of Gerontius."
The film follows Guthrie's efforts to recruit singers from various walks of life, including those in pubs and military hospitals. The ensemble cast includes Taylor Uttley as Ellis and Oliver Briscombe as Lofty, two teenagers awaiting their call to the front. Emily Fairn plays Bella, whose boyfriend Clyde (Jacob Dudman) returns from the war missing an arm and secures the lead role. Amara Okereke portrays Mary, the sole Black member of the choir, who rises to a principal singing part, while Mitch (Shaun Thomas) pursues her. Robert Emms plays Guthrie's pianist, Robert, who receives a draft letter and chooses to become a conscientious objector. The narrative also touches on Alderman Duxbury's strained relationship with his wife, who is grieving the loss of their son in the war.
Guthrie is depicted as a stern taskmaster, focused on honing the choir's performance of "Gerontius" as the world around them seems to unravel. The film explores themes of art's ability to provide solace and transcend social divides, even in times of conflict. Bennett's screenplay prompts contemplation on why humanity prioritizes war over community-building through shared interests like music.
While the film has been noted for its intelligent handling of the subject matter and Fiennes's understated performance, some critics suggest it is emotionally muted. The sprawling ensemble cast and the nuanced approach to the characters' struggles contribute to a sense of restraint. Despite this, the film offers a plaintive portrayal of wartime solidarity and encourages reflection on the role of art in human experience, ultimately earning a recommendation to stream. Notable performances include a poignant speech delivered by Jacob Dudman.