Made in Dagenham

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Glafira Regina O @Glafira_Regina Jul 17, 2025 We all know that there was a time when women couldn’t work, couldn’t vote, couldn’t do a whole lot—relegated to being mere extensions of their husbands. But knowing that and actually imagining living like that are two different things. As someone living in the 21st century, it’s genuinely hard for me to picture that kind of life. And yet, that era is only a few decades behind us. Before watching this film, I used to think of the women who stood up against discrimination as some kind of superheroes. But the BBC movie changed my perspective, showing me ordinary people with ordinary lives who simply made the brave decision to fight for justice. It started out as a regular strike, but it ended up becoming a turning point that changed the world. Living in a "man’s world," where any fair treatment toward women was viewed as condescension, these women had the spirit and perseverance to keep going, even when things got tough. Who knows what kind of rules we’d be living under now if not for those brave Ford factory women? A major bonus for the film is its cast: Sally Hawkins, Rupert Graves, Bob Hoskins, Miranda Richardson… those are the names I knew, but everyone else left a great impression as well. Classic British cinema—what can I say? Bad actors or bad films just don’t seem to happen over there. But Sally Hawkins—she’s absolutely wonderful! I already liked her as an actress, but after this movie, I think she might just become one of my favourites. I watched the film on a dark winter night, but despite the gloomy setting, I had this constant feeling that a warm summer sun was quietly shining somewhere nearby. This is a beautiful, heartwarming, and kind film. See more steven a @RT67998809 Jan 14, 2023 Hawkins' engaging performance and a priceless turn as MP Barbara Castle by Richardson are the film's main strengths. Hoskins gives solid support as the union man who supports the strike. The route to the women's eventual victory is oversimplified by Ivory's script as the need for feel-good entertainment competes for attention with the more serious political points, which are only superficially dealt with. The 1960s vibe is created through subtle costume and production design and the obligatory use of period pop songs. Despite its cliches, there is much to enjoy thanks largely to the skill of the actors. See more Feb 6, 2021 Great film! Excellent performances! Demonstrates the stupidity of sexism and the power of positive social change! Bob Hoskins is delightful in this film. #feminism #workersrights #equality See more kyle v @RT44164218 Oct 19, 2019 Reviewed 10.15.19 In 1968 a small group of disrespected female machinists at a British Ford Motor plant went on strike for equal pay. It's based on a true story you'd think we'd all know, but like the women in the movie, had been overlooked. Kudos to producer Stephen Woolley for shining a light on it. Because even now, the battle persists. Sally Hawkins stars as Rita O'Grady, a working class mother that 'has got a bigger set of balls' than the three union bosses that turn on her. That line is delivered by Bob Hoskins, loveable as Albert, her confidante that's driven by his own mother's past. Hawkins adds her own personal sort of charm to a role that could have easily slipped into an 'angry female' caricature. Rosamund Pike, a true talent awaiting her star-making role, further elevates the proceedings. The story is completely predictable, but serves as an entertaining and important chronicle. And unlike the macho male history of conflict that weighs down our annals, this true story of women and men fighting together for what's clearly right, provides a blueprint for a more just future. See more Ted W @RT84494621 Jan 8, 2018 Pretty good movie starring sally Hawkins. See more Jul 15, 2017 Pretty good. A British "Norma Rae" with more winsome gals ... A time capsule - and one of my shorter Reviews! A Comment on Barney's blarney below: There's nothing Leftist about this film at all. Poland's long march to freedom from Marxist, Leninist, Stalinist, Beatty'ish Soviet oppression came through the trade union movement. Righties rarely know enough to know this. See more Read all reviews

Made in Dagenham

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