Old-fashioned in the best sense. The period details are lovingly applied; the script, by the great Alan Bennett, is beautifully crafted; and the performances, led by the marvelous Ralph Fiennes as the town’s reluctant choirmaster, are all standouts.

A reenvisioning of Elgar’s Catholic devotional that ties it in a profound and moving fashion to the time and place of The Choral, and the underlying idea that a little music, a little companionship, can’t stop the horror but it can provide a respite.

The Brits do this kind of light and dark juggling act better than almost anybody, and the filmmakers and their cast deliver a movie that's perfect for viewing on a lazy Sunday afternoon at the movie theater.

Even if The Choral doesn’t light a fire under us with its array of microdramas, it at least provides some nutritious food for thought.