Review of Made in Dagenham (2010) by Tracey S — 10 Oct 2010

Made in Dagenham is a fact-based drama, the source for which is the 1968 strike by the sewing machinists at the Ford car plant after they had been downgraded as unskilled workers. The 187 women operators didnâ??t just strike to be reinstated to be semi-skilled but for equal pay and lobbied the government for equal right for women.

Sally Hawkins plays the lead role, Rita Oâ??Grady, an unlikely activist whose â??take no crapâ?? attitude inspires her fellow co-workers to lay down tools and walk out. Hawkins is supported by a strong talented cast including the likes of Bob Hoskins, union rep Alfred Passingham, and Miranda Richardson, the legendary Labour Cabinet minister, Barbara Castle, who championed their cause.

An entertaining period piece that is not just about this particular strike and this particular point in history but about whatâ??s fair, whatâ??s â??rightâ?? versus whatâ??s â??privilegedâ??, and the need to stand up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity.

If you liked the Calendar Days and The Full Monty, youâ??ll certainly like this feel good Brit flick about female empowerment.