Watch Chunky Monkey
- 2003
- 1 hr 28 min
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6.2 (77)
Chunky Monkey is a 2001 British comedy-drama film directed by Greg Cruttwell. The movie stars David Threlfall, Alison Steadman, and Nicola Stapleton in lead roles. The film revolves around the characters of Terry (David Threlfall) and Jan (Alison Steadman), a working-class couple living with their daughter Amy (Nicola Stapleton) in a small Yorkshire town. Terry works as a lorry driver while Jan is a checkout supervisor at a local supermarket. Both are overweight but are happy with their lives and love each other immensely.
However, their world turns upside down when Amy decides to pursue a career in modeling. She gets selected for a photo shoot in London, and this opportunity brings a lot of change in their lives. Terry and Jan accompany her to London and are amazed to see the world of glamour and fame. Amy's success in modeling makes them realize their own limitations and prompts them to make changes in their lifestyles.
The movie addresses some serious issues like body-shaming, low self-esteem, and societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. But it does this through a quirky and lighthearted narrative that doesn't take itself too seriously. The film is littered with humorous moments, and the chemistry between the three lead actors is excellent.
What makes Chunky Monkey stand out is that it doesn't try to force its message down your throat. Instead, it presents a relatable story that viewers can connect with. The characters in the movie are flawed but endearing, and you can't help but root for them.
David Threlfall is excellent as Terry, the lovable everyman who is content with his life until he realizes it needs a change. Alison Steadman is equally fantastic as Jan, the supportive wife who stands by her husband's side. Nicola Stapleton is convincing as their daughter, Amy, who wants to achieve her dreams but feels guilty about hurting her parents' feelings.
The film's production values are also worth mentioning. The cinematography is beautiful, showcasing both the picturesque countryside of Yorkshire and the hustle and bustle of London. The soundtrack of the film is delightful, featuring some catchy tunes that will leave you humming long after the movie is over.
Overall, Chunky Monkey is an enjoyable movie that offers a lot of laughs, heart, and thought-provoking moments. It treats its characters with empathy and doesn't judge them for being overweight. Instead, it celebrates their uniqueness and shows that everyone has the potential to change and better themselves. If you're looking for a feel-good film that will make you laugh and leave you with a smile on your face, Chunky Monkey is definitely worth a watch.