British cinema loves a story about plucky singers – but these films are increasingly inspired by reality TV rather than reality
Modern
Britain is no longer a nation of shopkeepers but a nation of singers. From the coves of Cornwall to the suburbs of Glasgow, inspirational choirs and angel-voiced ordinary folk are just waiting to be discovered and made into a movie. Not content with mining our pop heritage (Rocketman, Bohemian Rhapsody, etc),
British cinema has set up a production line in everyday tales of the power of song, often claiming to be “inspired by a true story”, which might not be quite accurate.
Military Wives is both the latest example, and an illustration of why this stuff is so prevalent. The true story in question is well known: how the partners of British servicemen fighting in
Afghanistan formed a choir that became a national sensation. It is perfectly enjoyable, and the premise is beyond reproach, but we know how this tune goes: unpromising beginnings, a cappella pop hits, a chalk-and-cheese character clash (Kristin Scott Thomas and Sharon Horgan), preparations for the Big Concert, and the obligatory angel-voiced introvert among them who never knew she had it in her.