Controversial musical film on Shannon Matthews' kidnapping faces backlash before release

A new musical film titled "Shannon Matthews: The Musical: The Movie" is set to premiere on November 15. It is based on the real-life kidnapping of Shannon Matthews in 2008 and has sparked controversy for its dark humor. The film follows a successful stage production that sold out at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022. Critics have labeled the film "cruel and sadistic," with public figures condemning its portrayal of Shannon's experience. Despite the backlash, some viewers have praised the film, calling it "hilarious" and well-produced. The creators claim the film is a fictional representation based on research from media publications.