Review of Made in Dagenham (2010) by Chris C — 06 May 2011

A definite feel-good film about Ford machinists going on strike to demand equal pay in 1968 however the film, for all its intentions, really glosses over the essential issues at hand instead focusing on the women and their relationships.

It's well-made and interesting to see a film from the perspective of the working-classes but also full of the typical 60s period cliches. The cast is strong with their rather cliched roles although Sally Hawkins, whilst likeable, does not really command the screen as she should do in the lead role of Rita O'Grady and Miranda Richardson, who is just excellent as Barbara Castle, gets very little screen-time and even less to do.

Flawed but enjoyable fare which never really puts over the issues it wants to highlight.