Movie : Song for Marion

Before the Movie Review

Somehow, the movie I’m reviewing this time also turns out to be one that brings tears to your eyes. Although I don’t remember exactly, this movie was released in Korea in 2013, achieving a modest result of only 200,000 viewers. I stumbled upon this movie about 4-5 years ago while searching for films centered around music, and even now, I occasionally revisit it just to watch the parts where music is featured, specifically the choir scenes. While the story might be somewhat predictable, the understated performances of the actors and the simple, unembellished visuals make the movie more comfortable to watch. However, this doesn’t mean the movie is boring. In fact, the frequent choir scenes offer a delightful experience for those who enjoy music and want to feel it in their hearts. Additionally, there’s a certain charm in listening to the British accents throughout the film (or is it just me?).

Plot Summary

The movie is set in what appears to be a small town in England. Here, there’s a class where elderly people gather to learn singing. Among them is Marion, an older woman who is passionate about attending the class despite being in poor health due to her battle with cancer. Her loving husband, Arthur, is always by her side, taking her to and from the class every day. Arthur is devoted to Marion but is known for being gruff and stubborn, which doesn’t earn him much favor with others. Especially when he waits outside smoking while Marion is in class, he often gets reprimanded by the singing teacher, Elizabeth, yet he never changes his behavior.

One day, the elderly participants and the teacher set a new goal: to compete in a choir competition. Their enthusiastic preparation is portrayed with some comedic elements, but their passion is palpable through the actors’ expressions. After vigorous practice and unique choir performances, they pass the first round of auditions and begin preparing in earnest for the finals. However, just as things are looking up, Marion’s cancer worsens, and she collapses. After a period of rest at home, she manages to return to practice but eventually succumbs to her illness, leaving behind her beloved Arthur and family.

Arthur, who was always gruff and irritable, is devastated by Marion’s death, which further strains his already fragile relationship with his son. Grieving day by day, Arthur starts visiting the place where the singing class was held, standing by the wall outside, listening to the music like he used to. Eventually, at the suggestion of Elizabeth and in memory of Marion, he joins the choir. With Elizabeth’s help, he gradually becomes an active choir member.

Although he temporarily quits due to a conflict with his son, he ultimately returns for the finals in honor of Marion. Despite a near setback where the choir almost couldn’t perform due to the organizers’ demands, Arthur’s determination sees them through, and they deliver a moving performance on stage. The film concludes with Arthur reconciling with his son.

Review: A Predictable Story, But Worth Watching for the Music

The film’s plot unfolds in a way that anyone can predict. The characters face crises such as separation, overcome various small challenges, achieve their goals, and reconcile with their families. However, the actors’ understated performances, the heartfelt songs they sing, and the humorously portrayed situations of the elderly make the movie enjoyable and far from boring. It’s a film that leaves you with a warm feeling after watching it. If you get the chance to watch the movie or at least the musical scenes, I highly recommend listening to Marion’s “True Colors” for Arthur and Arthur’s “Lullaby (Goodnight, My Angel)” for Marion, along with the accompanying visuals.