One Chance
Stars: James Corden, Alexandra Roach, Julie Walters, Colm Meaney
It’s a sad fact of life that those seen as “other,” i.e., those who don’t fit a prescribed societal “norm” oftentimes face a hellish life of torment and ridicule. Such was the case for Paul Potts (James Corden), a timid, kindhearted shop staffer who aspired to be an opera singer. In this true-life tale, Potts wins the U.K. talent show, “Britain’s Got Talent,” but not before being pummeled repeatedly by hordes of bullies. It’s a wonder those hooligans were never locked up; they clearly should have been. Despite being tortured by his contemporaries, and looked down upon by his father, Potts’ desire to sing remains unabated, thanks in large part to his mother’s love and support. His gift to the world is not just that glorious voice; Potts unrelenting humanity in the face of humanity’s most base depravity should give hope to bullied victims everywhere. –p.d. lee
