Happy-Go-Lucky (film, 2008)

Happy-Go-Lucky is a 2008 British comedy-drama written and directed by Mike Leigh. It follows Poppy, an irrepressibly upbeat London primary school teacher played by Sally Hawkins, who meets everyone around her — even those who treat her harshly — with warmth and good humour. The film traces her everyday life: nights out with her best friend, classroom moments, and tense driving lessons with Scott, a bitter instructor portrayed by Eddie Marsan. Alexis Zegerman appears in a supporting role. Rather than mocking her optimism, the film shows how Poppy quietly brightens the lives she touches.

The film had its world premiere in February 2008 at the Berlin International Film Festival, where Hawkins received the Silver Bear for Best Actress. Critics responded warmly to Leigh's direction and screenplay and to the performances of Hawkins and Marsan, and the picture earned about $18.7 million worldwide. Hawkins went on to win the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy, while Leigh was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.