Calendar Girls

Annie Clarke and Chris Harper enjoy a peaceful life in the Yorkshire village of Knapely, frequently engaging with the local Women's Institute. Their close friendship provides them with support and familiarity in their community.

Annie's husband, John, receives a devastating diagnosis of terminal leukaemia. This news shatters their lives, and Chris offers her steadfast support, regularly visiting them at the hospital during this difficult period.

During her visits to the hospital, Chris finds the waiting room couch to be particularly uncomfortable. This leads her to brainstorm creative ideas for raising funds to procure a better sofa for the hospital.

After noticing a cheeky calendar in a local mechanic's shop, Chris is inspired to create a unique calendar featuring the Women’s Institute members posing nude for a good cause. She envisions these women engaging in traditional activities like baking and knitting while posing tastefully.

Despite facing initial skepticism from the community, Chris successfully persuades nine other women to join her and Annie in the calendar project. Together, they unite in overcoming their shyness and supporting one another through this unexpected venture.

Chris and Annie seek approval from the head of the local Women’s Institute, who ultimately refuses to sanction the calendar. Determined to change her mind, they travel to London to present their case at the national Congress, advocating for their vision.

After much deliberation, the local leader grudgingly agrees to allow the calendar's sale. This pivotal moment marks a significant step forward for the women, enabling them to proceed with their plans and embrace their newfound opportunity.

The first printing of the calendar quickly sells out, showcasing the women’s boldness and bravery. It garners unexpected national and international media attention, propelling the women into the public eye.

The women receive an invitation to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, an all-expenses-paid trip to Los Angeles. Chris initially hesitates, feeling the need to care for her troubled teenager, but a scandalous story compels her to join the others.

As the calendar's publicity escalates, it begins to strain personal relationships among the women. During a photo shoot, unresolved tension boils over, leading to an explosive confrontation between Chris and Annie regarding their responsibilities and choices.

Despite their heated argument, Chris and Annie manage to reconcile after reflecting on their friendship and priorities. They recognize the need to support each other as friends rather than succumbing to the pressures of celebrity and public life.

Eventually, the women return to their normal lives, embracing their roles in the community and the Women's Institute. The calendar project, while transformative, does not overshadow their enduring friendships and commitment to one another.

Before the credits roll, it's revealed that the women raised over half a million pounds through their calendar sales. This impressive amount allowed them to establish a special leukaemia wing at their local hospital, leaving a significant mark on their community.