110 minutes, Comedy/Drama, PG

At some point in our lives, whether completely alone in the shower or during a night out with friends performing karaoke, we cannot resist the urge to test our vocal range and ability. Like myself, some may be absolutely frightened by the results and therefore, never wish to attempt that again. Not FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS (Meryl Streep)! Armed with a singing voice that frightens almost everyone except herself, she fires it at any ear willing to listen for the sake of curiosity. As for other people who experiment with their vocal cords, some may have just discovered their true calling. No’p, not Florence either! With her devoted, yet equally unconvinced husband (Hugh Grant) by her side, and buoyed by a supportive group of friends, this is the miraculous true story of how FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS forges a career and a true calling in a field there was never one there for her, in Opera performing. 

She relentlessly pursued her dreams. Those dreams left her listeners with nightmares. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the feel-good, sound-bad film of the year! 
There is an undeniable factor behind the entertaining success that FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS is – it’s such an unbelievable story, it just has to be true!  Using this to its advantage in every way possible, Stephen Frears’ (THE QUEEN, PHILOMENA) latest film is a fascinating experience that often suspends us in disbelief. Ironically though, one of the only things that have a tendency to bring the good work down is not intentionally bad singing, but unintentionally bad acting. “The Big Bang Theory’s” Simon Helberg completely overdoes his awkward and timid character – a talented pianist that (very nervously) accompanies Florence on stage. Elsewhere, a considered and deceptively thought-provoking screenplay encourages its audience to ask worthy questions. One of those may be in relation to if and when it’s acceptable to laugh at the undeniably amusing, yet sensitive situation at hand. Thankfully, an uncluttered script has endorsed laughter at times it’s warranted whilst often reminding you to keep the compassion you possess right by your side at all times. Trust me, it is needed.

3.5 out of 5

FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS – Film Trailer

Footnote to Parents 
PG for mild coarse language and sexual references

Moviedoc wishes to thank Claire from Entertainment One, Entertainment One and The Backlot Studios for the invitation to the media screening of FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS.

Review by Moviedoc
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