The Film "Florence Foster Jenkins" Starring Meryl Streep

Dir Stephen Frears (b. UK 1941)  received 2 Oscars nominations for "The Queen"('06)  & "The Grifters" ('90.)  He was received a Razzi for worst film "Mary Reilly" ('96) starring Julia Roberts. Frears' film "Florence Foster Jenkins" wisely casts Meryl Streep in the lead role.  Jenkins was an early 20th C heiress, notoriously known for her horrendous singing voice that regaled her with admirers (including Cole Porter) for its unintentional hilarity & authentic audacity.  Jenkins was a magnanimous philanthropic supporter of the arts; mainly in relating to music.  Hugh Grant stars as St. Clair, Jenkins doting supporter or ingratiating gigilo depending on your prelude into their long time relationship.  St. Clair was an aspiring British actor who never reached the higher octaves of acclaim.  He did score Jenkins as his biggest supporter; financially & otherwise.  Simon Helberg ("The Big Bang") rounds out this motley cast as Jenkins accompanist on the piano, Cosme.  It's through Cosme's eyes we share the unfavorable assessment of Jenkins "somewhat flat" singing voice & the trepidation of their upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall as a humiliating debacle.  This film will not garner Frears an Oscar but neither is it in contention for a Razzie.  Streep is a diva & a damn good actress who plays her part with perfect pitch.  Overall, this is a middling, likable film.  At its best tt's inspirational and a lovely aria about living with gusto.  Jenkins performance at Carnegie Hall was held during WWII.  She gave the majority of the tickets to men in the military.  "During these times music is needed more than ever."  The soldiers as well as the audience responded to her exuberance & passion.  The film is overflowing with tenderness, devotion,  and Jenkins' delightful delusion.  "Practice any art, no matter how well or badly, not to get money & fame but to experience becoming, to find out what's inside you, to make your soul grow."  (K Vonnegut)