One Chance (2013)
The remarkable true story of Paul Potts — a bullied shop assistant whose operatic voice changed his life forever.
One Chance - Movie Information
- Original Title: One Chance
- Release Year: 2013
- Directed by: David Frankel
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Comedy, Music
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 1h 43m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 9, 2013 (Canada - 14A), August 29, 2014 (United States - PG-13), October 8, 2013 (United Kingdom - 12), May 22, 2014 (Germany - 6), July 3, 2015 (France), July 24, 2014 (Brazil - 12)
- Alternative Titles: Une dernière chance (CA)
- Production Companies: Relevant Entertainment, Syco Television, Weston Pictures, The Weinstein Company
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America
One Chance - Plot
This film follows the remarkable and inspirational true story of Paul Potts, a shy, bullied shop assistant by day and an amateur opera singer by night.
One Chance - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits in this uplifting true story:
The incredible true story of an underdog who never gave up.
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One Chance - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- David Frankel
Main Cast
- James Corden
- Alexandra Roach
- Julie Walters
- Colm Meaney
- Jemima Rooper
- Mackenzie Crook
- Trystan Gravelle
- Sion Tudor Owen
- Alex Macqueen
- Miriam Lucia
Writers
- Justin Zackham
Producers
- Michael Menchel
- Brad Weston
- Simon Cowell
- Kris Thykier
One Chance - FAQs
Is One Chance based on a true story?
Yes, One Chance brings the real life of Paul Potts to the screen. A mobile phone salesman from Port Talbot, Wales, Potts auditioned for Britain's Got Talent in 2007 and stunned the judges with his operatic voice, ultimately winning the competition and launching a professional singing career.
What is One Chance about?
One Chance follows Paul Potts, a shy, bullied shop assistant who harbors a secret passion for opera. Despite self-doubt, health setbacks, and a lack of encouragement, he auditions for Britain's Got Talent and discovers that one extraordinary voice can change everything. It's a warm, funny, and deeply moving underdog story.
Where can you stream One Chance?
You can catch One Chance on Amazon Prime Video or stream it for free on Tubi TV, The Roku Channel, Shout! Factory TV, YouTube Free, and Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Kanopy and Hoopla offer it free with a library card.
Did Paul Potts appear in the film?
The real Paul Potts did not play himself in the film — James Corden takes on the role with remarkable warmth and physicality. However, Potts was closely involved in the production, and the film's climactic Britain's Got Talent performance draws directly from his real audition, capturing the genuine emotion of that iconic moment.
Who plays Paul Potts in One Chance?
James Corden plays Paul Potts, delivering a heartfelt and surprisingly nuanced performance. The supporting cast includes Alexandra Roach as his devoted wife Julz, Julie Walters as his mother Yvonne, and Colm Meaney as his skeptical father Roland. Together they bring real depth to the Potts family dynamic.
Is One Chance worth watching?
If you enjoy feel-good biopics with genuine emotional punch, One Chance is absolutely worth your time. Critics praised James Corden's committed lead performance and the film's warm, crowd-pleasing tone. It wears its heart on its sleeve — think Billy Elliot meets The Full Monty — and delivers a satisfying, uplifting payoff.
Does One Chance feature real opera singing?
The operatic vocals heard throughout the film are performed by the real Paul Potts, not by James Corden. This creative choice adds authenticity and emotional weight to the musical sequences, particularly the climactic audition scene. Hearing Potts's actual voice alongside Corden's physical performance creates a genuinely moving effect.
Who directed One Chance and what else have they made?
David Frankel directed One Chance. He's best known for helming The Devil Wears Prada (2006) and Marley & Me (2008), both crowd-pleasing films with strong emotional cores. His knack for balancing comedy and sentiment makes him a natural fit for Paul Potts's story, and that sensibility shines throughout the film.
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