Roger Daltrey famously sang “I hope I die before I get old” in The Who’s signature song “My Generation.” But if you don’t – and Daltrey ironically didn’t – then the Young At Heart Chorus will be waiting for you.
With an average age of 80, the Massachusetts-based chorus performs songs you’d expect to find on their grandchildren’s iPods. Director Bob Cilman patiently yet emphatically coaches his willing singers through renditions of “I Feel Good” by James Brown, “I Wanna Be Sedated” by the Ramones or The Clash’s “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” The group’s enthusiasm, natural talent and undeniable chutzpah effort-lessly translates to the screen in Stephen Walker’s winning new documentary.
Walker introduces us to individual members as the body complete prepares for a concert, and three personalities stand out from the crowd. Eileen Hall, the oldest member at 92, is a flirtatious performer who sums up for the camera what most of the members believe – Cilman’s chorus is a challenge, but the social and therapeutic aspects keep them coming back for practice sessions and shows.
The film’s focus gradually falls to Fred Knittle and Bob Salvini, members of the chorus whose eroding health forced them to leave the group they love. Cilman invites them back for one last show and assigns them Coldplay’s soft ballad “Fix You” as a duet. Their scenes may make you weepy. The rest of “Heart” makes you smile. Too bad Walker couldn’t find time to celebrate the phenomenal band that backs the chorus. They are the red-hot blood coursing through this lively group’s veins.
Editor’s note: Regal Entertainment Group’s Manor Theatre, which is screening “Heart,” will host a free concert from a local live band in the Blossom Shop parking lot, 617 Providence Road, on Saturday, May 3, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 4, from 1:30-4:30 p.m. to celebrate the film’s opening.
The Manor also is sponsoring a canned-food drive benefiting the Second Harvest Food Bank that runs through May 15. Bring a donation to either concert and you will be eligible to win tickets to see “Heart.” A winner will be announced on May 19.
