A Late Quartet

Synopsis & Film Details

Filmworks presents the American independent drama that the Seattle Times calls “a lovely and engrossing film that beautifully illustrates how music can transport the listener to another world.” The film stars Christopher Walken as the beloved cellist in a world-renowned string quartet. He receives a life-changing diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, throwing the group’s future into uncertainty. His three colleagues find themselves at a crossroads, as suppressed emotions and competing egos threaten to derail years of friendship and collaboration. On the eve of their 25th-anniversary concert – quite possibly their last – only their intimate bonds and the power of music can preserve their legacy. The film, inspired by and structured around Beethoven’s Opus 131 String Quartet in C-sharp minor, co-stars Philip Seymour Hoffman, Catherine Keener, and Mark Ivanir.

 

Screening sponsor: Fresno Philharmonic. Join the Philharmonic and conductor Theodore Kuchar for its all-Beethoven masterworks program “Beloved Beethoven” on Jan. 26-27, featuring internationally acclaimed violinist Elena Urioste.

Discussion Circle: After the 5:30 p.m. show, join local musician Benjamin Boone to talk about the film. Boone, a music professor at Fresno State, is an award-winning composer and performer. Moderated by Filmworks board member Stanley Poss.