Watch The Chicken Party

The Chicken Party is a heartwarming and funny coming-of-age story about three teenage friends who struggle to navigate their final year in high school while dealing with personal and family issues. The film, released in 2018, stars Megumi Kabe, Ami Shimada, and Schafer Bourne and is directed by Carlos Sorin. The movie is set in a small town in Japan, where the three protagonists – Mika (Kabe), Sara (Shimada), and Shin (Bourne) – attend the same school. Mika is a shy and reserved girl who dreams of becoming a veterinarian. She lives with her single mother, who works long hours at a convenience store, and a brother who is frequently absent. Sara, on the other hand, is an outgoing and rebellious girl who likes to party and have fun. She lives with her parents, who are going through a rough patch in their marriage. Shin is a transfer student from the United States who doesn't speak much Japanese and is struggling to fit in.

The Chicken Party takes its name from a peculiar event that happens in the town every year: a community party where everyone brings their own chicken to roast on a giant grill, and the best-looking chicken is crowned the winner. The three friends decide to enter the competition as a team, hoping to win the prize money and use it to fulfill their dreams. But the competition proves to be tougher than they expected, and they find themselves facing off against rival teams, some of whom are more experienced and well-prepared.

As they prepare for the event, the three friends face a range of challenges that test their friendship and their abilities. Mika must cope with the guilt and burden of her family situation, while also trying to build up her confidence and social skills. Sara struggles with the stress of her parents' problems and the pressure to conform to societal norms, which clash with her desire for freedom and self-expression. Shin faces the challenge of adapting to a new culture and language, while also trying to find his own identity and purpose.

Despite the obstacles, The Chicken Party is ultimately a story of hope and resilience. The three friends learn to support each other, to be honest and vulnerable, and to pursue their dreams with passion and determination. Along the way, they discover the joy of friendship, the beauty of teamwork, and the power of community.

One of the strengths of The Chicken Party is its strong sense of place and culture. The movie captures the rhythms and nuances of small-town life in Japan, from the rituals of the chicken party to the everyday routines of the characters. The cinematography is simple and understated, but beautiful in its depiction of the natural surroundings and the changing seasons. The soundtrack, composed of both traditional and modern Japanese music, adds to the atmospheric mood of the film.

Another strength is the performances of the three main actors, who bring authenticity and depth to their roles. Megumi Kabe delivers a nuanced portrayal of Mika, whose journey from vulnerability to strength is a highlight of the film. Ami Shimada brings a fiery energy and charisma to her role as Sara, balancing her rebellious spirit with moments of vulnerability and self-reflection. Schafer Bourne, in his debut role, gives a convincing and heartfelt performance as Shin, capturing both the frustration and the wonder of being an outsider in a new culture.

Overall, The Chicken Party is a charming and uplifting film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. With its themes of friendship, perseverance, and cultural identity, it speaks to universal truths that transcend borders and languages. Whether you're a fan of coming-of-age stories, Japanese culture, or heartwarming movies in general, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this delightful gem of a film.