The Choral is a 2025 British historical drama starring Ralph Fiennes, directed by Nicholas Hytner and written by Alan Bennett. Set in 1916 Yorkshire, the film follows a small-town choral society as it prepares a performance of Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius while the First World War rages in the background. A year on from its UK cinema release, it remains one of the most warmly received British dramas of 2025.
The Choral — Release Date
The Choral premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 5, 2025. It was released in UK cinemas on November 7, 2025, by Sony Pictures Classics, and in the United States on December 25, 2025. The film runs for 113 minutes and is rated R in the United States.
The UK release passed its one-year anniversary on November 7, 2026, so this is a look back at a 2025 film rather than a brand-new release. It sits comfortably alongside other 2025 releases such as Goodbye June (2025) and How to Train Your Dragon (2025).
Cast
Ralph Fiennes leads the cast as Dr Henry Guthrie, the choirmaster at the heart of the story. He is joined by Roger Allam, Mark Addy, Alun Armstrong and Robert Emms, with Simon Russell Beale making a cameo appearance as composer Edward Elgar.
Like Wake Up Dead Man (2025) and Die My Love (2025), The Choral is built around a strong ensemble cast, with Fiennes giving a quietly commanding performance at its centre.
Story & Soundtrack
Set in 1916 in the fictional Yorkshire town of Ramsden, the film centres on a local choral society preparing to perform Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius. The music is by George Fenton, and Elgar's great choral work is the emotional centrepiece of the film, giving the story its warmth, humour and sense of community.
The film is written by Alan Bennett, his first original screenplay in four decades, and marks the fourth collaboration between Bennett and director Nicholas Hytner. For a look ahead to next year, see The Dog Stars (2026).
Watch the Official Trailer
Watch the official trailer for The Choral, released by Sony Pictures Classics.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is The Choral released?
The Choral premiered at TIFF on September 5, 2025, was released in the UK on November 7, 2025, and in the US on December 25, 2025.
Who stars in The Choral?
Ralph Fiennes stars as Dr Henry Guthrie, alongside Roger Allam, Mark Addy, Alun Armstrong and Robert Emms, with Simon Russell Beale as Edward Elgar.
Who directed The Choral?
The Choral was directed by Nicholas Hytner, from a screenplay by Alan Bennett, with music by George Fenton.
What is The Choral about?
Set in 1916 Yorkshire, it follows a fictional town's choral society as it prepares to perform Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius during the First World War.
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