The Choral BTS clip gives sneak peak of Ralph Fiennes in new Alan Bennett period drama

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Ralph Fiennes has been very busy recently, appearing in several major films like Conclave, The Return, and 28 Years Later. He’ll soon be starring in another new movie, set to be released early next month.

Directed by Nicholas Hytner and written by Alan Bennett – who previously collaborated on successful projects like The History Boys and The Lady in the Van – The Choral is a drama set during World War I.

In the new film, Ralph Fiennes plays the leader of a choir in Yorkshire that’s struggling after many of its singers went off to fight in the war. The film also features performances by Mark Addy, Roger Allam, and Simon Russell Beale.

Hytner explains that Alan Bennett shared a piece with him, initially envisioned as a play called ‘The Choral.’ However, Hytner instantly felt it was better suited as a film, not a stage production.

Bennett once shared that his strength lies in writing dialogue. He believed that by accurately capturing how someone speaks, you can truly understand their personality and inner self.

Fiennes describes Bennett as a very likable and down-to-earth person, and highlights Bennett’s significant impact and popularity, particularly in comedy for stage and screen.

He explained that working with Nick and Alan creates a really warm, family-like feeling on set. He described the show as a collaborative effort, where everyone works well together.

Those involved with the film’s music also praised the director. Composer and arranger George Fenton said Hytner has a strong musical sense and a clear vision. Co-music director Tom Brady noted that Hytner understands how music can best serve the film.

The documentary features clips from the film itself, as well as interviews with key people involved, including actors Amara Okereke, Emily Fairn, Jacob Dudman, and Simon Russell Beale, plus cinematographer Mike Eley, costume designer Jenny Beaven, and producer Kevin Loader.

With war happening on the Western Front, the men of the Choral Society in Ramsden, Yorkshire are largely fighting in the army. The remaining members of the society’s committee are determined to continue, and decide to recruit young local men to join their ranks.

The group also needs to hire a new choir director. Although they have their doubts about him, Dr. Henry Guthrie (Fiennes) appears to be their best option – he’s a determined and demanding musician who recently came back from working in Germany.

When draft notices begin appearing, the townspeople realize that the best way to cope with the disruption and hardship around them is to unite through music.

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2025-10-28 17:36