Young @ Heart Review

Usually footage of the elderly failing to live up to their past-it stereotype slots right in with pratfalling kids and fluffy animals for cheap awwwws, but Channel 4’s engaging documentary proves that footage of old people singing Stayin’ Alive shouldn’t be restricted to YouTube. The Young At Heart Chorus from Massachusetts, with an average age of 81, have sung their versions of the Ramones and Sonic Youth in front of royalty, and while it’s funny and novel to watch them sing, it’s their personalities that provide the real heart. Hearing them talk about music and coping with growing old is inspirational, but never Hallmark sentimental. Following their preparation for a concert while facing up to health problems and tragedy, this is a well-rounded and welcome portrayal of old people who live life to the full.