If you knew you were about to watch a documentary about an octogenarian choir, you might decide to fall asleep before the opening credits roll. What is special about a bunch of old geezers singing? The formula changes a bit when you realize that the group does covers of songs like Sonic Youth's Schizophrenia. This group of song birds puts a new twist on songs we all know, from Alternative to R&B to Rock. The group shares their name with the documentaries title, Young@Heart.
The concept isn't necessarily new. My friends and I used to take metal songs and sing them like show tunes for fun. It was a stupid time waster, but also an interesting challenge. Our idea was usurped by a performer, Richard Weed, who made a lot of money on our un-patented idea. However, there is something charming about watching an elderly person responding to the screeching sounds of Schizophrenia before embracing the song and making it their own. That is why Young@Heart succeeds. As a documentary or as a musical ensemble.
Stephen Walker and Sally George directed this film, which spent several weeks with Young@Heart while they worked on a half dozen new songs to add to their repertoire. In the process, two members of the group died within a week of each other. The first on the morning of their first live performance at the county jail. The second, shortly before their stage debut. The spirit among the seniors was refreshing. The show goes on. Why? Because that's what we all would have wanted. Because people are counting on you. Or, in the words of a 92-year-old, "I would want the show to continue...I would sit on my rainbow and watch."
The camaraderie between the members of the group is also explored in this documentary. Three of the members carpool with a former World War II pilot who is still hell on wheels. The members respect each other, support each other and generally remind us why they were the "Greatest Generation." Their example is one that we all can learn from.
I found myself impressed with the way the group interprets the various songs they are given. The group is organized by Bob Cilman, who selects the soloists for each song. His selection process seems to have rhyme and reason once you hear the soloists pull it off. While it only played once, I was especially impressed with the cover of Sinead O'Connors Nothing Compares 2 U. It was haunting and powerful, sung a Capella by one of the singers we never examine on individual terms. 92-year-old Eileen Hall delivers her lines as poetry, with her thick British accent adding an intriguing charm to the lyrics. The talents within this choir vary, but Bob Cilman seems to elicit the best from his performers. A task that is not easily achieved. The practices test his patience as he wonders out loud if he will have to scrap several songs. He doesn't, and the choir pulls through when the lights go up.
Young@Heart is a feel-good documentary. While it hits a few sluggish parts, the film moves seamless most of the time. We get to meet several of the more gregarious choir members and learn a bit about their personal histories as a backdrop for their performances. Their successes are offset by the tragedy that happens twice during their preparations for their new tour. The resiliency, tenacity and general optimism of the group helps shed light on their longevity. Their performances are different, interesting and sweet. They have a way of reaching across generations to make new music their own, and in the process, find common ground with their audience. It was sappy sweet at times, but sometimes that is just what the doctor ordered. 8/10.
Images and trailer subject to copyright by Fox Searchlight Pictures
