Kinky Boots is based on the true story of how an ailing shoe factory, Price and Sons of Northampton, turned its fortune around. Joel Edgerton plays Charlie Price, a reluctant fourth generation shoemaker. When his father suddenly dies, Charlie is forced to take over the family business, which has been making classic men's brogues since 1895. But sturdy traditional shoes are out of fashion, and the firm faces bankruptcy. Spurred on by entrepreneurial factory worker Lauren- Sarah-Jane Potts Charlie fights his own apathy to find new customers. Along comes Lola (Chiwetel Ejifor) a drag queen from Soho, who drips sass and sex. After a chance meeting in London, Charlie begins to see a potential new market. Talk about putting the right foot forward first time film director Julian Jarrold has created a hilariously charming and sophisticated tale in which the underdog has to go beyond his comfort zone and adapt to his circumstances. Joel Edgerton is thoroughly convincing as Charlie, the mild mannered factory owner and serves as a great counterpoint to the outrages yet sensitive character of Chiwetel's Lola.
I had no idea he had such great legs and vocal chords, no lip synching in this one, we actually get to hear him sing and it's a joy. Complete with a strong ensemble cast, slick cinematography and gorgeous footwear Kinky boots is ultimately a shoo - in for one of this years most enjoyable pictures.
