CODA: Life with Music

Coda is a film about music. Henry Cole (Sir Patrick Stewart) is an acclaimed pianist who returns to the stage after a prolonged hiatus. During his inaugural concert, he is afflicted with a severe case of stage fright and barely avoids disaster. In the following days, his condition worsens, he becomes more and more unstable and his career is hanging by a thread. Bewildered and ready to pack it in, he meets Helen Morrison, a former pianist turned music critic, who wants to write an article on him. She asks for an interview. A reserved and austere man, Henry declines. Helen persists and eventually gains his trust. A peculiar relationship develops between the two, based on love of music and a shared sensibility. Henry feels fortified and wants to resume his concert tour. Helen worries that this renewed confidence is only superficial. She suggests a trip, to attend a concert in a remote place, Sils-Maria in the Swiss Alps. In a time of personal crisis, she once found her answer there. Perhaps he can now find his.