Film review: One Chance is contrived but still affecting
David Frankel, 104mins. Starring: James Corden, Julie Walters (12A)
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Triumph follows adversity follows triumph follows adversity in dizzying fashion in David Frankel's contrived but still affecting biopic of Paul Potts, the phone salesman from Port Talbot who became the first winner of Britain's Got Talent.
Potts, played as a "lovely big fatty" by James Corden, has a fatalistic approach to life. But, as you'd expect from the director of The Devil Wears Prada, the film doesn't go in for gritty Ken Loach-like realism in its portrayal of South Wales.
The music is glorious. Corden is so likable that you don't notice how trite the storytelling is. Colm Meaney is in snarling form as Potts's rugby-loving (opera-despising) dad, while Julie Walters hams it up, Acorn Antiques-style, as Paul's garrulous mum.
A sly comic turn from Mackenzie Crook as Potts' boss helps keep the schmaltz partly at bay, while Alexandra Roach is good value as Paul's loyal wife.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments