Adapted by Ronald Harwood from his play, Quartet is set in an English home for retired musicians, Beecham House. These residents are serious musicians, the kind who played in major orchestras and sang opera at Covent Garden. Careers marked by applause, encores, and world travel are now over, and that’s not always an easy adjustment. We are introduced to several residents, including Wilfred Bond (Billy Connolly), Reginald Paget (Tom Courtenay), and Cicily Robson (Pauline Collins)—who all knew each other during their respective careers. As the film opens, another resident of the house, Cedric Livingston, a director (Michael Gambon) is trying to get the acts organized and in place for the house’s annual gala, the proceeds of which will help to determine whether Beecham House is able to stay open.
Putting so many egos in one place would seem like a recipe for disaster, but all of the residents are fairly congenial. That is, until diva Jean Horton (Maggie Smith) moves in). Jean used to sing in a quartet with three of Beecham’s residents—Wilfred, Reginald and Cicily—breaking it up when she went on to pursue a successful solo career. To make matters worse, Jean was once married to Reginald, but she broke his heart when she had a one night stand with another man.
Reginald has spent most of his life trying to avoid Jean, and though she asks for forgiveness, it’s not something he appears willing to give. Naturally, as time passes and the two spend more time together, old wounds begin to heal. However, when Reginald, Wilfred, and Cicily try and convince Jean to sing as part of the quarter for the gala, things grow cold again. Now Jean must learn something about the importance of forgiveness and moving on.
The story itself is quite simple, but where the film shines is squarely in the performances. Tom Courtenay quietly stands out, giving an understated portrayal of angry, reticent Reginald, Billy Connolly, playing a rogue made more confident by a stroke, turns in a wonderfully poignant performance. Pauline Collins (best known to American audiences for her role in Shirley Valentine) brings the perfect sense of confusion to Cicily, whose enthusiasm can’t hide the onset of dementia. The consistently reliable Michael Gambon is fun as a director who isnt about to let advancing age stifle his aggressive attitude. He makes every scene he appears in memorable, as he sashays in and out, in one colorful silk robe after another.
Everything revolves around Maggie Smith’s Jean. Outwardly full of confidence, in reality, she’s unsure of herself and her abilities when not on the stage. Knowing her once great voice has lost some of its power has left her feeling vulnerable. The question is whether she will share her fears with her old friends.
The film’s underlying message is that we’re never too old to stop learning about ourselves. It’s a simple but powerful message. It’s all too easy to forget that everyone, regardless of age, has something to contribute to society. Made by professionals from top to bottom, Quartet is a simple, yet highly enjoyable film.
Shot on 35mm film, Anchor Bay’s 1080p Blu-ray release is presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Detail is rather sharp, and colors are vibrant with just a bit of oversaturation. Skin tones are consistent and lifelike. This is just a very nice transfer that seems to capture Hoffman’s intent.
The lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track serves the film well. The dialogue comes from the front and rear speakers. Directionality isn’t much of a factor, but things are well balanced. A French Dolby Digital 5.1 track is also available, as are subtitles in English SDH and Spanish.
The following special features are available:
- Audio Commentary with Dustin Hoffman: Generally scene specific, this informative commentary has Hoffman sharing some interesting behind-the-scenes tidbits and shooting information. Fans of the film will enjoy giving this a listen.
- Behind-The-Scenes Featurettes (SD, 15 min.) Six brief segments (with an option to view them all together) that provide a look into the making of the film. In truth, you will learn more by simply listening to the audio commentary.
