A FILM set at a Flintshire chicken factory is being released in cinemas this week and has been earning rave reviews.
Chuck Chuck Baby, a musical comedy-drama, is in cinemas from tomorrow (Friday, July 19).
The film stars Louise Brealey (Sherlock), Annabel Scholey (The Salisbury Poisoning, The Sixth Commandment) Sorcha Cusack (Snatch, Father Brown, Jane Eyre), Celyn Jones (Set Fire to the Stars).
As well as being a performer, Celyn Jones is a critically acclaimed and award-winning actor and screenwriter.
He was born and raised on Anglesey,
The main character, Helen, spends her nights packing chickens and her days caring for a dying mother-figure Gwen. Helen’s world takes an unexpected turn with the return of Joanne. They were the objects of the other’s unspoken teenage passions 20 years ago. One night, encouraged by Helen, Joanne starts a playful wooing game that re-awakens their youthful feelings.
It has been written and directed by Janis Pugh, from Flint, who worked at the chicken factory in Sandycroft some years ago - where she took much of the inspiration for the film.
Chuck Chuck Baby has been earning rave reviews - with the Guardian giving it four out five stars, describing it as an "emotionally charged musical drama" which "rules the roost".
Television presenter Clare Balding, who hosted the film's London premiere, described it as the "most beautiful film about female friendship, love and all it means".
This is the most beautiful film about female friendship, love and all it means. congrats to all involved especially @janis_pugh Louise Brearley, @AnnabelScholey and all the fabulous women in the chicken factory.
— Clare Balding 💙 (@clarebalding) July 17, 2024
Go see it when you can #ChuckChuckBaby pic.twitter.com/mOGtcUZ0Sx
Empire Magazine also endorsed it - giving the film a solid 3 out 5 stars and calling it an "endearing tale of self-acceptance".
Amazingly, the film features some characters played by local women who had never acted before.
They had also all previously worked at the chicken factory in Sandycroft - and were seen as the perfect fit.
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