Gerard Jugnot is wonderful as Clement Mathieu, the prefect, whose heart for the boys and love of music holds the whole piece together. Jean-Baptiste Maunier plays Pierre Morhange, an exceptionally talented boy in whom Mathieu takes special interest, and who is telling the story as an adult. Marie Bunel plays Pierre's single mother, with whom Mathieu is smitten, and of whom Pierre is ashamed because the other boys tease him about her beauty. Francois Berleand plays the dapper but unfeeling headmaster Rachin.

There is an often repeated philosophical maxim at the school: action-reaction. Rachin uses this concept to show the boys that whenever they do something wrong, there will be a negative reaction, often in the form of "lock-up." Mathieu goes against this system by showing the boys love. It is his love that wins them over to his way of thinking, while Rachin's methods only alienated them and made them worse. The boys see that Mathieu is on their side, so the chorus grows and blossoms, as do the boys.

Mathieu writes all the music the boys sing, and it is wonderful, especially the solos by Pierre. He has a beautiful soprano voice. This is a very touching, heart-warming film, but there are some rough moments. It isn't easy converting a prison to a boys' home. Anyone that loves music, boys, education and seeing how love can change someone's life will love Les Choristes.



Waitsel Smith, July 6, 2007

Text © 2007 Waitsel Smith. Image © 2004 Miramax. All Rights Reserved.