Cast
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Sally Hawkins
as Rita O'Grady
Bob Hoskins
as Albert Passingham
Miranda Richardson
as Barbara Castle
Geraldine James
as Connie
Rosamund Pike
as Lisa Hopkins
Andrea Riseborough
as Brenda
Daniel Mays
as Eddie O'Grady
Jaime Winstone
as Sandra
Kenneth Cranham
as Monty Taylor
Rupert Graves
as Peter Hopkins
John Sessions
as Harold Wilson
Roger Lloyd Pack
as George
Richard Schiff
as Robert Tooley
Lorraine Stanley
as Monica
Nicola Duffett
as Eileen
Crew
Director
- Nigel Cole
Writer
- William Ivory
Producer
- Stephen Woolley
- Elizabeth Karlsen
Reviews
Andres Gomez
In spite of being an interesting story and having good cast and performances, it is not as thrilling as it could have been.
Dec 5, 2013
CinemaSerf
This is quite an interesting retrospective look at the efforts made by ordinary, working women to achieve equal recognition, and payment, for their skills and efforts in 1960's Britain. Set against a backdrop of economic torpor; Sally Hawkins and Geraldine James lead a workmanlike cast of British stalwarts who set about to challenge the Ford Motor Company to pay them fairly for their work. Even with a Labour (socialist) government and the formidable Barbara Castle (Miranda Richardson) as Employment & Productivity Secretary in Harold Wilson's government and initial trade union backing; this proved to be a fairly monumental effort involving hardship and strife - at work at at home - for all concerned. At time, humorous, this is a poignant insight into the battles, frequently between what one might reasonably assume to be those on the same side; and even amongst some working men who did not, themselves, believe women merited pecuniary equality. Bob Hoskins is pretty good as the mischievous shop steward who manages to encourage the women to challenge, and sustain their efforts in the face of establishment opposition with Richard Schiff also good as the US Ford manager brought in to "bust" it all... It's a bit simplistic, but certainly worth a watch.
Aug 11, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Made in Dagenham examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Nigel Cole brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2010, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Made in Dagenham took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $7.2 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 113 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 161 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1049 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 42 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2010, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Made in Dagenham shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Sugarland Express, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Made in Dagenham subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Rush Hour 2 and The Bravest explore similar territory, Made in Dagenham stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 1, 2010
- Runtime: 1h 53m
- Budget: $7,200,000
- Revenue: $12,629,471
