FILM REVIEW | Military Wives

Yes, it's set in the UK and follows the wives and partners of British military officers, but quite apart from that the film just feels English.

Military Wives brings to life the true story of the first choir set up by spouses who live on base after their husbands (and wife) have been deployed for a tour in Afghanistan.

The community of wives are a family, sharing each other's fears and worries and coming up with ways to pass the time.

Lisa (Sharon Horgan, Game Night) is 'in charge' of the ladies' social gatherings and plans due to her husband's superior rank.

The step up in responsibilities is a new thing for Lisa, who prefers to be just one of the other girls.

Adding drama to the mix is Kate (Kristin Scott Thomas, Darkest Hour), who, as the colonel's wife, is usually not part of the wives' activities but has found herself desperate for something to fill her days. Soon enough the group decide that they're going to start a choir to take their minds off their constant worry.

Everything plays out pretty predictably in Military Wives, with the expected singing practices, trouble picking songs, in-group squabbles and confidence issues.

There are several scenes that have the potential to inspire tears from the audience, but it's fairly ho-hum overall.

Thomas and Horgan deliver perfectly fine performances and the rest of the cast are completely acceptable.

These types of films usually thrive on their collection of odd and quirky characters, but no one in Military Wives really stands out.

The direction is not overly inspired and the climactic song is shot really curiously, coming across as quite awkward.

There are also some relationships - between Lisa and her teen daughter, for instance - that could have used more development and screen time.

Military Wives is a good enough movie, but there's nothing in it that's going to stick with you and leave you wanting more.

This one might be better enjoyed cosied up on the lounge with a hot cuppa and a biscuit rather than the cinema.