Sony Pictures Classics has released a wonderful trailer for The Choral, a World War I-set drama starring Ralph Fiennes as a stern but passionate choir leader trying to hold a community together through music.
Set in 1916 Yorkshire, the story follows Dr. Henry Guthrie, a man recently returned from Germany, who takes charge of a local choral society after most of its men are drafted into the army.
With teenage boys stepping in as replacements and conscription looming over them, the choir becomes a rare source of unity and hope. “The best response to the chaos that is laying waste to their lives is to make music together.”
Directed by Nicholas Hytner (The History Boys, The Lady in the Van) and written by acclaimed playwright Alan Bennett, The Choral blends personal resilience with national tragedy.
Fiennes’ character, described as “driven” and “uncompromising,” must confront his own secrets as the town around him changes. The film explores how a small act like singing can become a lifeline when everything else falls apart.
“The Choral’s ambitious committee, determined to press on, decides to recruit local young males to swell their ranks… despite their suspicions he has something to hide, their best bet seems to be Dr. Henry Guthrie.”
The film looks to offer an uplifting portrait of community and artistic resistance during one of history’s darkest chapters. I actually am looking forward to watching this! It looks great!
The Choral will make its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival in September, followed by a UK theatrical release on November 7. It arrives in US theaters this Christmas on December 25.