Cinema Therapy — Charlyne Gelt, Ph.D.

Quartet

QUARTET, a 2012 British comedy-drama, and the directorial debut of the actor Dustin Hoffman, was inspired by the 1984 documentary called Tosca's Kiss which was about the world's first home for former professional opera singers, founded in Milan by composer Giuseppe Verdi in 1896.

Overview

QUARTET is set in Beecham House, a home for retired “elite” musicians. The storyline revolves around an annual gala concert performed by the home’s talented retired opera singers and musicians, the proceeds hopefully going to keeping Beecham House afloat. Three members of a former quarter are already residents of Beecham House. One of the three, Reginald or “Reg” (Tom Courtenay), is shocked when his former wife Jean (Dame Maggie Smith), the missing member of the quartet, moves in. He is, in fact, angry. The chill between the divorced couple is still very much present. He’s still stinging over Jean’s infidelity.

Reg begins to thaw out as the story moves forward, and a plan arises to re-form the quartet for the Verdi Gala concert, hoping it will sell enough tickets to save Beecham House. The question is, will Jean (still very much the diva) consent to rejoining Reg and the two others, Wilf (Bill Connelly) and Cissy (Pauline Collins), to perform the Act Three quartet (“Bella figlia dell’amore”) from Verdi’s “Rigoletto.” Jean, fearing her lovely voice is gone, but not wanting to own up to it, refuses, masking her anxiety with anger.

But because their common goal is the survival of Beecham House, the residents all go to great lengths to coax Jean to perform. Reg, Wilf, and Cissy, invite Jean to dinner. Jean, blissfully unaware and thinking their broken friendships are now mended and repaired, with the past forgotten, accepts the invitation, However, when they broach the gala subject again, Jean, because of her fear about her voice, again reacts with anger and storms out of the restaurant.

In the end, Jean’s own competitive nature gets the better of her, and she agrees to perform with the quartet. The gala springs forth a display of great zest among the residents. The idea of rehearsing and playing before an audience has brought life back to the home and the quartet and to the rapturous applause of the audience. Reg stands next to Jean and asks her to marry him. She replies yes.

Embracing Life's Third Act Through QUARTET

QUARTET is a heartwarming and inspiring story about how four musical colleagues, still in search of belonging, love, and harmony, deal with the difficult issues of aging, sexuality, and survival as they approach their own final years. It does so with the wit and humor that the British do so very well. This film serves as a poignant example of how movies can be used therapeutically to help individuals cope with the challenges of aging.

The characters’ communication style, their tongue-in-cheek dialogue, and interactions speak in operatic rhythm ─ especially when grudges and anger mask fear, rejection, and an undying love. As the film shows, loneliness and longing for love can happen at any age, including “old age,” and asks the question, “What really matters when you are facing the loss of youth, independence, health, mortality, and still long for the family you never had?”

Trying to mend things with Jean, Reg comes to understand that the past is the past, that now is now, and that his grudge about Jean’s infidelity is in the past. The time left is more important than the hurt that keeps him locked in. Jean begins to appreciate her new “family” and expresses regret for her past bad behavior towards Reg. She admits that she is still in love with him, which is a step towards healing Reg’s wounded pride.

There are a number of ways viewers can look to a movie like QUARTET and find comfort and inspiration for their own lives, or find a way not to fear the future: Love and Friendship in the Twilight Years The film highlights the enduring nature of love and friendship. The reunion of Jean and Reg, ex-spouses, demonstrates that love can persist through time, misunderstandings, and even hurt. Their story teaches us that it's never too late to forgive and rekindle old flames. This message is vital for audiences facing similar situations, reminding them that age does not diminish the capacity for love and reconciliation.

Physical Failings and Mortality

Jean's struggle with the loss of her once-celebrated voice reflects the broader theme of coming to terms with physical limitations. The film does not shy away from depicting the realities of aging, including declining health and independence. However, it also shows that these changes do not have to define one's later years. Instead, they can be a catalyst for discovering new sources of joy and fulfillment.

What's Most Important in Life?

QUARTET delves into what truly matters when facing the inevitabilities of aging. The characters find that companionship, shared passions, and a sense of purpose are crucial. The film encourages viewers to look beyond societal views of aging and focus on the opportunities it presents for growth and connection. The gala concert, which becomes a symbol of hope and renewal, shows how aging is not just about loss and decline, but is also a story of hope, friendship, a different kind of family, and healing of old grudges.

One key lesson from QUARTET is the importance of cultivating a supportive community. Whether it's through family, friends, or shared interests, having a network of support can significantly impact how we experience aging. The film also suggests the value of staying engaged with one's passions, as the characters find renewed purpose in preparing for the gala concert. This engagement provides a sense of belonging and accomplishment, vital components for a fulfilling life at any age.

Upbeat Messages from QUARTET

Despite its themes of loss and aging, QUARTET is ultimately an uplifting film. It shows that aging can be a time of rediscovery and joy. The characters' journey towards the gala concert is a metaphor for the journey of life – one that emphasizes the importance of perseverance, humor, and the enduring power of human connections.

QUARTET is more than a film about aging musicians; it's a story about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of life's inevitable challenges. As a tool in Cinema Therapy, it offers valuable insights into dealing with aging, encouraging viewers to embrace their later years with grace, positivity, and an open heart. It's a reminder that life's third act can be as enriching and even fun.

Charlyne Gelt, Ph.D. (PSY22909) is a clinical psychologist who practices in Encino. She leads Women's Empowerment Groups that help women learn the tools to move beyond self-destructive relationship patterns. She may be reached at 818.501.4123 or cgelt@earthlink.net. Her office address is 16055 Ventura Blvd. #1129 Encino, CA 91436.