Calendar Girl

Annie Clarke and Chris Harper live in the Yorkshire village of Knapely, engaging in activities with the local Women's Institute. They spend time together and support community events, establishing their close relationship. Annie's husband, John, is diagnosed with terminal leukaemia, which becomes a turning point for the story.

John is diagnosed with terminal leukaemia, and Chris begins regularly visiting him at the hospital. The visits highlight her concern and the emotional toll on the family. Chris and Annie deepen their bond through shared grief and support during this difficult time.

Chris is frustrated with the uncomfortable waiting room couch and notices a 'girlie' calendar at a mechanic's shop. This sparks her idea to create a charitable calendar featuring WI members posing discreetly nude, engaged in traditional activities, to raise funds for a new sofa.

Chris proposes the calendar to the women of the Knapely Women's Institute. Despite initial skepticism, she manages to persuade nine women to join her in the project. They support each other to overcome shyness and societal norms regarding their participation.

The women enlist Lawrence, a hospital worker and amateur photographer, to help with the photoshoot. His assistance is crucial in capturing the discreet yet provocative images needed for the calendar. The women grow more confident with his support.

The local Women's Institute branch leadership refuses to sanction the calendar. Chris and Annie then take their case to the national WI congress in London, seeking approval for the project to proceed. The national body is hesitant but ultimately leaves the decision to the local leader.

The approved calendar is printed with an initial run of 500 copies, which sell out quickly. The calendar gains unexpected national and international media attention, turning the project into a commercial hit. The women become unwitting celebrities in the process.

Due to the media attention, the women are invited to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in Los Angeles. All expenses are paid, but Chris initially chooses to stay behind to oversee her family and business. However, scandal and paparazzi coverage compel her to join the women in L.A.

The fame from the calendar causes strain among the women. During a photo shoot, tensions escalate, and Chris and Annie have a heated disagreement. Annie accuses Chris of neglecting her family, while Chris criticizes Annie for reveling in her altruistic image amidst her personal struggles.

Eventually, the women resolve their differences and return to their lives before the calendar project. Their friendship remains intact, and they find fulfillment despite the media frenzy and personal challenges. They continue to support each other and their community.

The calendar proves to be a substantial financial success, generating over half a million pounds. The proceeds are used to build a new leukemia ward at the local hospital, honoring John’s memory and benefiting the community. The women’s project becomes a symbol of empowerment and charity.