A heartwarming comedy featuring some of the most beloved actors in the business? Let's be honest: it's what Britain does better than anyone in the world. And the latest is darkly comic tale Allelujah, stars Jennifer Saunders, Judi Dench, Derek Jacobi, Russell Tovey and David Bradley.
This is the latest film from Richard Eyre, with Call The Midwife's Heidi Thomas adapting Alan Bennett's play.
The story follows what happens when the geriatric ward of a small Yorkshire hospital is threatened with closure. The hospital decides to fight back by galvanizing the local community. They invite a news crew to film their preparations for a concert in honour of the hospital’s most distinguished nurse. What could go wrong?
Turns out, there is a threat to the place that goes far beyond the politicians demanding efficiency at any cost...
"Heidi adapted Alan's play very cleverly, and the two of them produced a wonderful, thought-provoking script - very funny but also deeply moving," says Eyre. "They challenge us to think hard about how, as a society, we should care for the old. The film is an urgent call to arms to support our public health services. Thankfully, the combination of good jokes and an important subject made it irresistible to some of our best – and best-known – actors."
Julia McKenzie and Bally Gill are also in the cast for the film, which Pathe aims to release in the UK early next year, coinciding with the 75th Anniversary of the NHS. Footage will also be shown at this year's Cannes Film Festival, which kicks off on 17 May.
