Some films are ensemble pieces, and this one truly fulfills that description.  From the four leads (Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Pauline Collins and Billy Connolly) through the supporting players (Michael Gambon, Sheridan Smith, Andrew Sachs, Gwyneth Jones, Michael Byrne, etc.) there isn’t a mediocre performance to be witnessed.  The film is a treasure trove of terrific acting, perhaps because it is directed by a great actor, Dustin Hoffman, in his directorial debut at age 75.

The story is based on a Ronald Harwood play, at an English manor that serves as a retirement home for musicians, and opera singers in particular.  They prepare once a year for a concert to raise funds to keep themselves in kipper, but newcomer opera diva Maggie Smith wants no part of it.  Gradually Smith warms to the environment, and to her former husband (Courtenay), and the show goes on.

Hoffman emphasizes humor at almost every opportunity, whether it be the libidinous comments of Billy Connolly or the sniping between soprano divas Smith and Jones, and although all the funny stuff is entertaining, it occasionally undermines the more poignant aspects of growing old that is at the heart of the story.  The manor seems incredibly idyllic, too, what with the gorgeous grounds, the beautiful music playing all the time and not a hint of rain.  Still, these are quibbles when analyzing the artistry evident in Hoffman’s film.  What really matters are the characters, and these people are absolutely worth spending an hour-and-a-half of one’s time.

Maggie Smith is the ostensible star, yet I liked each of the other three leads a great deal more than her.  Tom Courtenay assumed the part of Smith’s husband rather reluctantly, but his quiet dignity (except in one funny but bizarre verbal barrage of a young woman) anchors the film’s serious side.  Billy Connolly assumed the part that was due to go to Albert Finney but is funnier than Finney could have wished to be. And Pauline Collins is just flat-out great in her best role since Shirley Valentine back in 1989.  Together, this a quartet recruited by Hoffman that brings prestige and honor and incredible talent to this highly enjoyable production.  ☆ ☆ ☆.  10 February 2013.