Margate Film Festival – Opening Night ‘Chuck Chuck Baby’

Helen, a worker at a chicken factory in present-day North Wales, is also the caretaker for Gwen, a maternal figure in her life. When her teenage crush, Joanne, returns, Helen begins to rediscover a sense of joy she thought was lost, despite Joanne grappling with her own inner struggles. The film features musical elements woven throughout.

Written and directed by Margate-based Janis Pugh.

Set in present day industrial North Wales, Helen spends her nights packing chickens and her days caring for a dying mother-figure Gwen. Helen’s world takes an unexpected turn with the return of Joanne. They were the objects of the other’s unspoken teenage passions twenty years ago. One night, encouraged by Helen, Joanne starts a playful wooing game that re-awakens their youthful feelings.

As they fall in love and lust, Helen’s zest for life returns but Joanne feels the walls closing in as she faces something much darker from her past. Helen’s world is shattered when Gwen dies and Joanne’s painful memories cause her to flee. Separated and alone, both women reflect on their unfulfilled chance. Eventually, they find the courage to let go of the past and allow their love to win.