FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS

FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS:   Meryl Streep continues to add luster to her career (and perhaps her 20th Oscar nomination) with yet another portrayal of a real-life woman, in this case, a New York heiress who, inspired by a performance of Lily Pons, dreams of becoming an opera star.  The sad fact is that she has a terrible singing voice, albeit unbeknownst to her.  Also on hand is the wonderful Hugh Grant as her husband St. Clair Bayfield, a one-time actor who will go to any lengths to keep his wife from finding out how bad she really is. When Ms. Jenkins announces her intention to start music lessons, an accompanist must be found.  The delightful Simon Helberg fills the bill but is totally bewildered with the sounds emanating from Ms. Jenkins.  Along the way, there are moments with Earl Wilson, Cole Porter, Tallulah Bankhead and even Arturo Toscanini.  Stephen Frears directed this bright, bubbly biopic with warmth and a nostalgic grace as would befit any bonafide diva. And it is both hilarious as well as poignant.  This is one to see, if you have a heart and a hearty laugh. Meryl has never been better.