As some of you may know, I previously reviewed the fascinating true story of Florence Foster Jenkins in my blog post ‘Marguerite’ this film is the French version, told in a different way from the UK/US version starring the brilliant Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant.
This time the story is set in New York City (although, I learnt from the Screenwriter Nicholas Martin, that it was actually in London to keep in budget).
For those who don’t know the story, here is a quick synopsis; Florence is a high society lady, who is part of the New York Elite, her passion is music – Opera singing to be precise. She enjoys entertaining the members of her club with little cameos in shows, hosted by her husband, St Clair Bayfield (Hugh Grant). Florence decides that she wishes to take her singing more seriously and invest in some lessons with a Singing Coach and Pianist, Cosme McMoon (Simon Helberg, of Big Bang Theory Fame), whom which most of the film’s viewpoint is shown. So, what’s the big deal? I hear you ask? Well…
FLORENCE CANNOT SING – AT ALL. She is absoultley terrible! Everyone hides this fact from her – it is hilarious! Have a listen – Watch the trailer 🙂
Florence’s passion for music is so infectious, that it’s hard not to cheer her on throughout the film – ‘Live Your Dreams, Girl!’ is what I was thinking! Meryl Streep plays her incredibly well, such a wonderful actress, she really knows how to make you warm to her character against all the odds.
Simon Helberg plays Cosme McMoon with the best facial expressions ever – he tries so hard to hold in his laughter when he realises the state of Florence’s voice and the confused look on his face as he watches everyone else praise her talent – it’s classic.
Hugh Grant is the charming gentleman, as always. His relationship with Florence is brought into question quite early on in the film and you end up wondering how sincere he is to Florence – don’t worry, all is answered by the end of the film.
Also worth a mention, actress Nina Arianda who plays a gorgeous, loveable working class girl who has married ‘up’ Agnes Stark – Her scenes are so funny, she will have you falling out of your seat!
I suggest you bring tissues for both tears and laughter to this film – it’s just too funny in places and totally tear-jerking in others!
Wonderful film…Very much worth a cinema visit or 2.
Chanel 🙂