Quartet

Director Dustin Hoffman does a good job of highlighting the many charms and talents of his esteemed cast, from Dame Maggie down to the various supporting actors who really are retired musicians. The plot is simpler than the sleeper hit dramedy The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, but some of the themes are the same: Aging adults still want to feel vibrant and have much to contribute -- in this case, their literal voices. That said, the script doesn't delve too far into Reggie and Jean's past relationship, nor does it explore some of the heavier questions about the characters' medical problems, their lack of visitors, or the circumstances leading up to their stay in an assisted living home.

But the movie's light, nostalgic tone is fine; not everyone wants to see older actors in films as heart wrenching as Amour. As the youngest member of the ensemble, Connolly gets to be the flirtatious retiree who harmlessly comes on to the attractive doctor and her staff. Known for his blue material, the Scottish comedian tones it down with playful one-liners and music-themed double entendres. Gambon, who's costumed like a Muggle version of Dumbledore, is hilarious as the demanding Cedric, and Courtenay is excellent as Jean's jilted ex. If only all retirement homes really were this beautiful and filled with joyful septuagenarians.