“Quartet” is a 2012 British comedy-drama about a group of musicians and opera singers who live at the Beecham House for retired musicians. The singers perform in an annual concert in honor of the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. Three of the residents, Reg, Wilf, and Cissy, were once part of a famous quartet of singers.

When Jean, the fourth member of the quartet, decides to become a residence at the Beecham without Reg’s knowledge, tension builds. Reg and Jean had a romantic relationship years ago, and were married to each other for a short time. Despite Jean’s best efforts to reconcile, Reg avoids her, and ignores her pleas. He finally gives in and starts fixing their broken relationship. Later, Reg and the rest of the quartet try to convince Jean to perform with them one last time. Jean, unsure of how her singing abilities have changed, refuses to join in.

The principal characters, Reg (Tom Courtenay), Wilf (Billy Connolly), Cissy (Pauline Collins), and Jean (Maggie Smith) were stellar and believable. The movie was delicate and poised. It is a great movie for the older crowd, while it will also appeal to younger viewers. Although this is a serious film,  jokes and humor sprinkled are throughout. It is classy, and smart, and well composed, and won’t fail to impress. 

4.5/5 stars
Runtime: 1 hr. 37 min.

Rating: PG-13