The Women's Institute is, I think, peculiarly English - a nationwide club of predominantly middle-aged women undertaking shared activities, largely domestic in nature, to alleviate the boredom of housewifery (I may sound derogatory in my generalisation: I do not mean to be). When Annie's husband John dies of leukaemia, Annie's friend Chris comes up with the bright idea of a fund-raising calendar to replace the lumpy sofa in the relatives' room at the local hospital. The calendar will feature WI ladies taking part in WI activities, but with the added unusual element of them being (tastefully and discreetly nude).
Based on a true story, this film is great. The script is very funny, the story is always interesting (especially after the calendar is published, when some elements of the story get a little darker), and the Yorkshire scenery is beautiful.
The all-star cast is a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it is quite distracting when every one of these everyday Yorkshire housewives (and their husbands) is portrayed by a famous face. On the other hand, the main performances (Helen Mirren, Julie Walters, Penelope Wilton Celia Imrie) are all superb.
But the movie is a treat, especially if you can look at the WI with a knowing fondness.
Based on a true story, this film is great. The script is very funny, the story is always interesting (especially after the calendar is published, when some elements of the story get a little darker), and the Yorkshire scenery is beautiful.
The all-star cast is a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it is quite distracting when every one of these everyday Yorkshire housewives (and their husbands) is portrayed by a famous face. On the other hand, the main performances (Helen Mirren, Julie Walters, Penelope Wilton Celia Imrie) are all superb.
But the movie is a treat, especially if you can look at the WI with a knowing fondness.