BY ROMEY NORTON MARCH 25, 2024
La Cha Cha is a wacky and whimsical Welsh comedy, which was filmed under pandemic rules (little bit of trivia, it is reported that the cast formed a bubble on the Gower peninsula to make the film) with a slight Covid-19 theme (not enough to make you sigh or shudder). The film reunites the cast of cult favourite Twin Town and stars Keith Allen, Alfie Allen, Rhys Ifans, Dougray Scott, and Melanie Walters.
SYNOPSIS
The story surrounds a group of eccentric oldies who live together on a caravan/camp site, desperate to not die in an old folks home, and they’re not one for newcomers, strangers or foreigners, so when an Irishman comes to camp seeking refuge, they’re more than unwelcoming.
REVIEW
From the opening credits I felt like I was about to watch an old British classic like Benidorm or Carry on Camping, and I was not let down. Within the first ten minutes there’s a song about crusty knickers, and we’re introduced to some quirky characters. Including a couple of naturists, an organ playing crossdresser, a prostitute and a group of ex-military homosexuals.
La Cha Cha is a very silly film, which showcases the more weird and wonderful side of British people. You can tell the actors had a huge laugh filming, providing the audience with some fun and enjoyable moments.
The film is meant to be about seniors, but there is a love story between Libby and the Irishman that takes up a little bit too much screen time. I would have rather seen more oldies and their antics. The story has a lot of little plots, including a romance, a dead body, contraband and an investigation into why the Irishman is at the camp. The main drama is that the camp might be stopped in 30 days as the lease is up for sale and they simply can’t afford it. The ending might have been slightly predictable, but it is forgivable as it’s emotionally provocative, and gives its audience fulfilment and joy.
The acting is fantastic. Each person truly brings out the best and worst of their characters. Ruby Ashbourne Serkis (daughter of Andy Serkis) plays Libby, who’s in her mid-20s and owns the La Cha Cha caravan park with her brother Damien (played by her real-life brother Sonny Ashbourne Serkis). Both give great performances.
There is a mix of music, with cheesy electric organ and classical helping distinguish emotions in the scenes. The electric organ just takes me back to Blackpool and Filey as a kid, and these small details which bring a sense of nostalgia make this film special.
Overall, La Cha Cha is light-hearted with crude comedy, highlighting the power and importance of friendship, acceptance and community. And for anyone who might have produced or written this film, please turn into a series.
STAR RATING
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