Quartet (2012)

In the heart of Beecham House, a haven for retired professional musicians, the air is buzzing with anticipation. Every year, an annual gala performance is held to commemorate the birth of Composer Giuseppe Verdi, but this year's stakes are higher. The survival of the home hangs in the balance, as funds wane and the threat of closure looms near. Among the residents, a diverse ensemble of former divas and divos, are two old friends, the flirtatious Wilf Bond (Sir Billy Connolly) and the more contented Reggie Paget (Sir Tom Courtenay). While Wilf battles the woes of aging, Reggie savors his twilight years at Beecham House. The tranquility is disrupted, however, with the arrival of the famed Jean Horton (Dame Maggie Smith), Reggie's ex-wife and past performing partner. Their history is tainted by infidelity and an acrimonious divorce, adding a layer of tension to the home's already charged atmosphere. The gala's organizer, Cedric Livingston (Sir Michael Gambon), hatches a plan to salvage the home's financial woes. He believes that a performance of "Bella figlia dell’amore" from "Rigoletto" by Jean, Reggie, Wilf, and fellow resident Cissy Robson (Pauline Collins) could save Beecham House. This quartet had once recorded the most acclaimed version of the song, but reuniting them on stage presents unforeseen challenges. Reggie must forgive Jean, who yearns for reconciliation. Jean must overcome her fear of failing to reach her former vocal heights, having vowed never to sing again. Lastly, Cissy's early-stage dementia threatens to derail the performance entirely. In the depths of this turmoil, the residents of Beecham House must confront their pasts, their fears, and their fading memories, all while preparing for a performance that could dictate their future. Despite the hurdles, the mantra remains - the show must go on. The question is, will they be able to pull it off?

Quartet is a comedy movie featuring Maggie Smith and directed by Dustin Hoffman.

Quartet is currently streaming on DIRECTV.

It is also possible to buy Quartet on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.