The Chorus poster

The Chorus

Movie PG 2004 1h 37m 7.7 /10
Directed by Christophe Barratier

In a small town deterring boys in a 1940s French reeducation school, a new teacher arrives with a calm, practical approach and a belief that even lost kids can be inspired. Clément Mathieu, a soft spoken music lover, begins by quietly listening to the students, then introduces a chorus to give... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: February 03, 2026

About The Chorus

In a small town deterring boys in a 1940s French reeducation school, a new teacher arrives with a calm, practical approach and a belief that even lost kids can be inspired. Clément Mathieu, a soft spoken music lover, begins by quietly listening to the students, then introduces a chorus to give them a sense of belonging. As the boys rehearse under his guidance, discipline and camaraderie grow, and the once shut doors of the classroom begin to open to possibility. The simple act of singing creates moments of hope for many, laughter, and trust that ripple beyond the walls, altering how the children see themselves and their future. The classroom becomes a stage where old routines are reborn as songs.

Directed by Christophe Barratier, The Chorus draws on the legacy of the 1945 film La Cage aux rossignols. It is adapted from Noël-Noël and Philippe Lopes-Curval's material, celebrating music as a vehicle for hope in difficult times. Its practical framing.

The film enjoyed a strong international run, resonating with audiences worldwide and helping to bring French cinema to a broader audience. It also performed well in festivals and home video markets. The film's warmth and humor helped win hearts everywhere.

Across the years the film is remembered for its melodic centerpiece Vois sur ton chemin, a song that became a cultural touchstone and a symbol of hope for many listeners. Its scenes of choir singing linger as iconic moments. The music inspired school programs and choirs around the globe worldwide.

Reception was warm, with critics noting a humane balance of humor and sentiment. The story centers on mentorship, resilience, and the redemptive power of art, showing how trust can grow in unlikely places and how compassion can unlock stubborn hearts. Critics applaud its humane themes of mentorship and cultural resilience.

Details

Release Date
March 17, 2004
Runtime
1h 37m
Rating
PG
User Ratings
2,549 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Music
Country
France
Studio
Galatée Films +4 more
Budget
$5,300,000
Box Office
$83,600,000
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Gérard Jugnot

Gérard Jugnot

Clément Mathieu

François Berléand

François Berléand

Rachin

Kad Merad

Kad Merad

Chabert

Jean-Paul Bonnaire

Jean-Paul Bonnaire

Father Maxence

Marie Bunel

Marie Bunel

Violette Morhange

Jean-Baptiste Maunier

Jean-Baptiste Maunier

Pierre Morhange

Maxence Perrin

Maxence Perrin

Pépinot

G

Grégory Gatignol

Pascal Mondain

Thomas Blumenthal

Thomas Blumenthal

Corbin

C

Cyril Bernicot

Le Querrec

Director: Christophe Barratier

Written by: Philippe Lopes-Curval, René Wheeler, Noël-Noël

Frequently Asked Questions

The Chorus is not currently available to stream, rent, or buy online in the US. Check back later for updates.

With a rating of 7.7/10 from 2,549 viewers, The Chorus is well-regarded and recommended by viewers.

In a small town deterring boys in a 1940s French reeducation school, a new teacher arrives with a calm, practical approach and a belief that even lost kids can be inspired. Clément Mathieu, a soft spoken music lover, begins by quietly listening to the students, then introduces a chorus to give th...

The Chorus stars Gérard Jugnot, François Berléand, Kad Merad, Jean-Paul Bonnaire, and Marie Bunel.

The Chorus was directed by Christophe Barratier.

The Chorus was released on March 17, 2004.

The Chorus is a Drama, Comedy, and Music film.

Gérard Jugnot plays Clément Mathieu, the new teacher who inspires the disruptive boys.

François Berléand portrays Rachin, the headmaster at the school.

The Chorus is set in 1940s France at a school for disruptive boys, where hope and music emerge through a new teacher.

Kad Merad plays Chabert and Jean-Paul Bonnaire plays Father Maxence.