One Chance

One Chance is a 2013 British-American biographical comedy-drama film directed by David Frankel. The script, penned by Justin Zackham, records the life-story of a timid mobile phone salesman turned opera singer, Paul Potts. Potts’ character is intensely brought to life by the multifaceted actor James Corden who is well-known for his ability to combine comedy and drama seamlessly. Throughout the film, Corden’s performance takes the audience on an emotional journey where they appreciate the highs and lows of Potts'. Supporting Corden, the movie features dedicated performances from Alexandra Roach, Julie Walters, and Colm Meaney.

The film provides a dramatized insight into the trials and tribulations of Potts’ real-life journey from obscurity till finally seizing the limelight. For Potts, opera music is an escape into another world from the monotonous daily life of selling mobile phones in South Wales and being endlessly bullied for his love of opera. His ordinary life is juxtaposed with the extraordinary dream he carries, providing the viewers with a relatable story.

Roach portrays the role of Potts' unwaveringly loyal and loving wife Julie-Ann Cooper. She appears as a significant pillar in Potts' life offering him empathetic support and encouragement to pursue his dream, even though it seems impossible at times. Meanwhile, Julie Walters, playing the role of Potts’ mother Yvonne Potts, adds a delightful warmth and humor to the film, beautifully shaping the bond between Potts and his family.

Through Corden's incredible performance, the film appeals to the familiarity of an underdog story filled with obstacles, ridicule, and countless discouragements. But in the heart of this underdog story is an intense determination, courage, and a burning passion for opera which transcends all negativities.

One of the vital scenes in the movie involves Potts travelling to Venice to get trained by his idol, Luciano Pavarotti. The realistic portrayal of excitement alongside the anxiety of singing in front of his idol makes the audience connect profoundly with Potts’ character. However, like any dream worth pursuing, there are plenty of setbacks. Potts suffers both physically and emotionally, as the film doesn't hesitate to touch some dark corners of his life, including failed performance, moments of doubt, and profound regret.

Director David Frankel, who has previously dominated the genre of inspiring dramatic films with The Devil Wears Prada, brilliantly maintains the viewers' attention in One Chance by blending the ideal mix of humor and drama. He elegantly balances the story with a conservative amount of light-hearted scenes without taking the attention away from the central dramatic narrative of the film. The script’s upbeat nature, tinged with the right amount of poignancy, lends One Chance its overall endearing tone.

Visual storytelling is another beautiful aspect of One Chance. From the quaint and everyday scenes in a small Welsh town to the beautiful cityscapes of Venice, these locations play a pivotal role in creating a captivating backdrop for the unfolding narrative. The overall cinematography serves as a wonderful medium to emphasize the duality of Potts’ life, distinguishing his real world from his dream world.

Moreover, the movie does a superb job in showcasing the dichotomy of Potts' life, a humble salesman by day and a passionate opera singer by night. The film artfully captures the spirit of a man who, despite being dispirited and disillusioned several times throughout his journey, picks himself up and auditions for one of Britain’s most-watched TV shows.

One Chance, as a movie, brilliantly highlights the essence of undying passion, unyielding courage, and relentless determination through James Corden's amusing yet heart-touching portrayal of Paul Potts. This film provides an emotionally moving journey into a common man's life laced with dreams that are larger than life. It is an endearing watch, recommended for those who love stories that motivate and inspire.