Unfinished Song, originally to be titled Song for Marion, is a British weepie in the tradition of last year’s Quartet or The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.  I think of it as Quartet-lite.  It’s simple plot consists of pensioner Arthur Harris (Terence Stamp) caring for wife Marion (Vanessa Redgrave) until she passes, and then reluctantly joining the choral group that made her so happy in her final days, leading to a dramatic concert appearance.

This is not a high concept film.  It relies on star power — which it has in Stamp and Redgrave, as well as pretty Gemma Arterton as the choir director — and the very compassionate relationships that develop and unfold within the story as it progresses. The film’s gimmick is its music, which is quite modern and surprising for the old folk to be singing — things like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” and “Love Shack,” and such.

Paul Andrew Williams wrote and directed the film, which comes across as a labor of love, especially regarding Vanessa Redgrave, who I cannot recall having ever delivered a mediocre performance.  Redgrave is radiant, and I really enjoyed Gemma Arterton, more than I ever have before.  Arterton’s graceful performance, for me, is the biggest surprise and saving grace of the film.  Grumpy Terence Stamp is properly cantankerous, but his character is unduly strident without the background that would lead one to understand why.  It is patently clear where his character is heading, as well, though Stamp is very good in the musical finale, when he finally puts his feelings into words.

Unfinished Song is not a very good movie, yet its passion and emotions ring truer than its artistry.  It will please people who enjoyed Dustin Hoffman’s Quartet and who enjoy music in general and choral music in particular.  It’s fun, pleasant and poignant, even if it is far more derivative than it ought to be.  ☆ ☆ 1/2.  29 July 2013.