Chicken Run

| 2000

Directed by: Peter Lord, Nick Park

Main Plot

On a tightly controlled chicken farm run by the harsh Mrs. Tweedy, a group of clever hens dream of escaping their grim fate of being turned into pies. Their hopes soar when Rocky, a charismatic rooster, crash-lands into their coop, claiming he can fly. Believing Rocky holds the key to their freedom, the chickens, led by the determined Ginger, rally together to devise daring escape plans. As the Tweedys ramp up their efforts to profit from the chickens, the flock must work as a team, overcoming obstacles and setbacks, to outsmart their captors. With time running out and the threat of the pie machine looming, Ginger and her friends put everything on the line in a bold bid for liberty, discovering courage, friendship, and the power of unity along the way.

Characters

  • Mel Gibson voices Rocky, a brash American rooster who crash-lands into the chicken farm. His presence sparks hope among the chickens, but his bravado hides deeper insecurities.
  • Julia Sawalha plays Ginger, the determined and resourceful leader of the chickens. She faces constant setbacks, testing her resilience and belief in freedom.
  • Phil Daniels provides the voice for Fetcher, one of the crafty rats who assists the chickens. His streetwise attitude brings comic relief, yet he must confront the risks of helping others.

Ending Explained

In the final act of Chicken Run, the chickens’ long-held dream of escaping their oppressive farm becomes a reality. After numerous failed attempts and setbacks, the flock bands together under Ginger’s leadership and with Rocky’s help to construct a makeshift flying machine. As Mrs. Tweedy, the ruthless farm owner, prepares to turn the chickens into pies, the group executes their daring escape plan. The climax sees the chickens narrowly evading capture as their homemade aircraft lifts off, with Mrs. Tweedy in hot pursuit. Ultimately, teamwork and ingenuity allow the chickens to outsmart their captors; Mrs. Tweedy is left defeated, while the flock soars to freedom. The film closes with the chickens settling into a peaceful new sanctuary, free from the threat of the farm. Rocky and Ginger’s relationship blossoms, and the group celebrates their newfound independence. The ending underscores the themes of hope, resilience, and the power of collective action, providing a satisfying resolution to the chickens’ quest for liberation.

Peter LordNick Park AnimationAdventureComedy Mel GibsonJulia SawalhaPhil Daniels