The Chorus (2004)
A moving French drama about music, childhood, and the quiet courage it takes to change lives from the inside of a forgotten institution.
The Chorus - Movie Information
- Original Title: Les Choristes
- Release Year: 2004
- Directed by: Christophe Barratier
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Comedy, Music
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Original Language: French
- Spoken Languages: French
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 17, 2004 (Belgium - AL), March 17, 2004 (United States - PG), July 21, 2004 (Canada - G), March 11, 2005 (United Kingdom), September 1, 2004 (Germany - 6), March 17, 2004 (France - TP), January 20, 2005 (Australia), October 15, 2004 (Brazil), March 11, 2005 (Mexico), December 3, 2004 (Spain - APTA), March 3, 2005 (South Korea - All)
- Alternative Titles: Corul (RO), Los coristas (MX), Koret (DK), Gorooh e Kor (IR), The Chorus (US), Gosskören (SE), Os Coristas (PT), Mathieu og korguttene (NO)
- Production Companies: Galatée Films, Pathé Renn Productions, Vega Film, France 2 Cinéma, Novo Arturo Films
- Production Countries: France, Switzerland
The Chorus - Plot
In 1940s France, a new teacher at a school for disruptive boys gives hope and inspiration.
The Chorus - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the world of Clément Mathieu come to life:
Where to Watch The Chorus
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The Chorus - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Christophe Barratier
Main Cast
- Gérard Jugnot
- François Berléand
- Kad Merad
- Jean-Paul Bonnaire
- Marie Bunel
- Jean-Baptiste Maunier
- Maxence Perrin
- Grégory Gatignol
- Thomas Blumenthal
- Cyril Bernicot
Writers
- Philippe Lopes-Curval
- Christophe Barratier
Producers
- Arthur Cohn
- Nicolas Mauvernay
- Jacques Perrin
The Chorus - FAQs
Where can you watch The Chorus online?
The Chorus is available to stream, rent, or purchase on various platforms depending on your region. You can check the most current and comprehensive list of streaming and rental options for your country by visiting JustWatch, which tracks availability across all major services in real time.
Is The Chorus based on a true story?
The Chorus is not based on a specific true story, but it is a remake of the 1945 French film La Cage aux Rossignols by Jean Dréville. The story draws on a broadly recognizable tradition of redemptive education narratives, lending it an emotionally authentic feel despite being a fictional work.
Who are the main actors in The Chorus?
The Chorus stars Gérard Jugnot as the compassionate teacher Clément Mathieu, François Berléand as the stern headmaster Rachin, and Jean-Baptiste Maunier as the gifted young singer Pierre Morhange. Kad Merad, Marie Bunel, and Maxence Perrin also appear in key supporting roles.
What is The Chorus about?
Set in 1940s France, The Chorus follows Clément Mathieu, a failed musician who becomes a supervisor at a boarding school for troubled boys. Against the wishes of the school's harsh headmaster, Mathieu forms a choir, using music to awaken the boys' potential and bring warmth to their bleak lives.
Did The Chorus win any awards?
The Chorus received two Academy Award nominations in 2005, for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Song. It also earned César Award nominations in France and won the César for Best Music Written for a Film, composed by Bruno Coulais. The film was a major international commercial success.
What is the age rating for The Chorus?
The Chorus is rated PG in the United States, making it suitable for general audiences with parental guidance suggested for younger children. The film contains mild thematic elements related to institutional discipline and childhood hardship but is largely gentle, uplifting, and appropriate for family viewing.
How long is The Chorus?
The Chorus has a runtime of 97 minutes, or approximately one hour and thirty-seven minutes. Its compact length makes it an accessible and emotionally satisfying watch, moving efficiently through its story without overstaying its welcome.
How was The Chorus received by critics?
The Chorus earned warm critical reception internationally, praised for its nostalgic charm, Bruno Coulais's beautiful choral score, and the performances of Gérard Jugnot and young Jean-Baptiste Maunier. Critics noted its crowd-pleasing warmth and emotional sincerity, even if some found its narrative arc conventional.
More About The Chorus
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