The story unfolds in a northern English town called “Ramsden” during World War I, when many still anticipated a swift end to the conflict. The community faces a problem: their choir director has enlisted, leaving St Matthew’s Passion—already scheduled for the town hall—without leadership. Mill owner “Duxbury” (Roger Allam), along with his companions "Joe" (Mark Addy) and undertaker “Trickett” (Alun Armstrong), decide…

The Choral manages to be adequate, but it’s unlikely to stick with you for long afterward. The singing is lovely and the idea behind seeking shelter in artistic expression feels worthwhile; however, the way the themes and plot are handled doesn't go deep enough. Because the characters aren't fleshed out sufficiently, there’s no real emotional release or connection, resulting in a film that resembles an inflexible …