"Young@Heart", a new documentary release will not only touch - but just maybe - bring a tear to your eye.
Soon-to-be released by Fox Searchlight, the novel doc is an up-close behind-the-scenes gander at a chorus of vocalists who tour to sold-out concerts around the Nation and abroad.
What sets 'em apart from other stage performers?
They're mostly an octogenarian bunch, for starters.
Unlike other entertainers pining for fame and glory on Tin Pan Alley, the troupe is a tight-knit band of seniors - ranging in age from 72 and upwards - who crave for the exhileration that the joy of singing delivers up!
And, for a topper?
Forget about Bible-thumping hymns and sappy love songs; their repertoire consists of ballsy with-it pop ditties from the musical realms of top 40, rock 'n roll, and even punk!
Yes, when the first scenes open and the choristers belt out a lyric or two from a "Clash" cover, it jars the sensibilities at first.
But, withiin moments, the audience is revved up and enthralled by the whimsy of it all.
What a human interest story!
They're darn good, I tell 'ya.
Their succes is partly due to their insightful task master who pushes them to the limits with remarkable heart-warming results.
In fact, a lot of the footage is devoted to the weekly rehearsals - and a rip-roaring insightful zoom in on the engaging seniors - as they try to wrap themselves (and - in a couple of instances - sluggish grey matter) 'round tough tongue twisters and a musical sound that is light years from what they once waltzed to.
But, through the course of the documentary - as the filmgoer roots 'em on from the footlights - just betcha they nail 'em.
Some say that Beethoven and Bach - Mozart, too - composed musical compositions to heighten learning capability.
So, what is the attraction here?
"Well, it's good for the lungs," one elderly gent noted with a gleam in his eye.
Notwithstanding the obvious benefits of the virtual act of vocalizing itself - clearly the rigorous schedules (challenging rehearsals, traveling on the road, gearing up for heart-pounding concert dates) have not only reved the folks up - but bestowed a purposeful intent sure to add longevity.
Occasionally, the probing lens of the documentarian focuses on a couple of the individual chorus members; when it does, the results are often hilarious.
One old goat (forgive me for saying it, Sir!) noted that the reason he and his wife stayed together for 54 years was,
"Because we kept romance in our lives. Twice a week we'd go out on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. She on Tuesday, me on Wednesday."
And, in a solemn tone, he underscored that the loving relationship lasted because it was based on faith and trust.
"Her faith in me, and my lack of trust in her."
Hee-Haw!
But, there are touching moments in the film as well.
When the chorus performs for a handful of prisoners incarcerated at a local jail, the first up-beat number gets the guys hooting and laughing, and slapping each other on the back with mirth.
But, when the singers note there was a recent death in the group and dedicate a song (Forever Young)to their lost band member, the mood noticeably changes.
The gang of burly tattooed thugs get a little sullen, teary-eyed even.
In that one poignant moment it's evident the inmates are inclined to reflect on their plight, ponder mistakes they've possibly made, and wonder how it is that they've come to this way-station in life.
The director has also included a couple of promotional clips of video montages which elicit a lot of whoops and hollers from the theatre-goers, too.
To the tune of "Stayin' Alive" a big hulk of a man strides through a bowling alley in a white suit, effecting a hip stylish swagger that John Travolta would be envious of.
Another beautifully crafted segment - warbled to the endearing strains of David Bowie's - "Golden Years" - is fun, heart-warming, and entertaining.
"Young@Heart" is top notch entertainment bound to appeal to young and old alike.
Catch it, when it arrives at a theatre near you!
CD available online!
