That Day We Sang

OK, it's not great cinema and it has a deeply predictable (a sometimes rather awkward) plot, but it is unpretentious, charming, optimistic and uplifting. Sink into its warm embrace and enjoy it for what it is - a small but well-crafted film that will bring a smile to all but the most cynical of viewers. Imelda Staunton shows once again what a fine all-round performer she is, but it goes to Ian lavender, in a lovely cameo, to provide the one surprising moment of real emotional impact. The idea that love will find a way is a well-worn theme which is reworked here to really pleasing effect. Yes there are cliches of both writing and direction, but they are cliches because film makers have found they work. A hugely enjoyable 85 minutes.

What a wonderful little film I hope that this is played every Christmas on television. It is so heart-warming and spirit lifting. What can you say about Victoria Wood, a true national treasure and so sad that there will be no more new material. So we all should rejoice in the work she left us. Some say this is not a true musical, well it's not, it is a piece in Victoria's own inimitable style. It is simplistic, funny and very enjoyable, one which as you watch it, you know it's a Victoria Wood masterpiece. For anyone who watches on DVD I recommend the documentary presented by Victoria which fills in the background to the film. A film to honour those who made the recording and to highlight middle age second chance love. Thank you Victoria, may you rest in peace.

Based on a stage musical, THAT DAY WE SANG is a piece that celebrates the city of Manchester through a parallel structure contrasting the life of young Tubby (Harvey Chaisty) growing up in 1929 with that of the older Tubby (Michael Ball), living a humdrum life four decades later. In 1929 Manchester is full of terraced houses, cozy back- streets and cramped living-rooms; when Jimmy goes for an audition to join the city choir, he does so in an oak- paneled, poorly lit school-room. Forty years later the cityscape might have changed somewhat, with functional maisonettes replacing the old terraces; but the major landmarks remain such as Piccadilly Square, a testament to the city's Victorian confidence.

In terms of plot, THAT DAY WE SANG focuses on the humdrum lives of Tubby and Enid (Imelda Staunton), both of whom have reached middle age without actively doing anything. They both work in anonymous offices, bound by routines and finding visceral pleasures where appropriate (Enid has a squalid little affair with her boss Mr. Kirkby (Daniel Rigby). The two protagonists meet, and together reminisce about the time when they were members of the choir and sang "Nymphs and Shepherds" for a gramophone recording. The memories help to stimulate their imaginations, and they look forward to a brighter future together.

The musical has plenty of what might be termed Victoria Wood touches - the lyrics often involve complicated rhymes; whenever we can hear them, we understand just what a talented artiste she is. The dialogue contains plenty of references to domestic products (hand- creams, bathroom cleaners, etc.) reminding us of just how comic brand names can be. There are also intertextual references to some of Wood's earlier hits, such as the appearance of dinner (or should it be tea) ladies wheeling their trolleys around the office building.

The songs are mostly upbeat, giving plenty of opportunity for Ball and Staunton to show off their vocal prowess. In truth, however, the most memorable number is a specialty piece set in a Berni Inn - a long-forgotten chain of steakhouses, all red plush and prawn cocktails. Enid and Tubby are taken to dinner there by their social climbing neighbors Frank (Confeth Hill) and Dorothy (Sophie Thompson), who take the opportunity to show off their social advantages, accompanied by a bevy of dancing servers. The number is extremely funny with an unexpected dénouement.

THAT DAY WE SANG may be slight, but its sheer joyousness and the zest of the performances render it a piece of memorable entertainment.

I could not disagree more with the previous two reviews of this film. I thought 'That day we sang' was perfect viewing for the festive season. Granted the story was not as detailed as it could have been but considering the time constraints placed on it, I felt the plot moved along very smoothly. I thought that the musical numbers were both catchy and touching.Victoria Woods eye for detail and her wit are what sets her writing apart from anyone else.I have been humming 'If life were movies' ever since boxing day.

The wonderful cast made the most of the gift they had been given. Especially Imelda Staunton(from whom you wouldn't expect anything less)Harvey Chaisty and Michael Ball who's wonderful performances together, made Tubby the endearing,lovely, believable character he was. It was also great to see a film where the cast are singing live and not being dubbed over, as it made the whole thing all the more real.

Bravo to all involved

I am watching this now - I recorded it and have put off watching it. I am a big Victoria Wood fan and did not want to be disappointed. The only other VW thing I was disappointed with was her Christmas offering which parodied Larks Rise to Candleford a couple of years ago. Most of her output verges on genius. While not her very best,That Day We Sang is very entertaining and works very well. Michael Ball is great as Tubby and Imelda Staunton plays very well against him. The smaller parts are, as usual in VW vehicles, good studies in "types". The musical numbers work well, too and her lyrics are sharp as ever. It is a period piece set in the Thirties and Sixties and is well observed and set. The young actor who plays Tubby as a child is engaging and quite a find.