Watch Made in Dagenham

Made in Dagenham is a British film directed by Nigel Cole and released in 2010. The film tells the story of the real-life struggle of the female workers at the Ford Dagenham car plant who fought for equal pay in 1968. The film is set in the late 1960s when the world is experiencing a time of societal change, and raises the issue of gender equality at a time when women’s rights were neglected. The movie revolves around Rita O'Grady, a factory worker who notices that women in her workplace are paid significantly less than men despite being equally skilled. As a result, she leads a strike that eventually received international attention highlighting the need for equal pay.

The film's main character, Rita O'Grady, played by Sally Hawkins, is a determined woman who initially resists her role in the strike committee but eventually rises to the leadership position of the campaign. Along with her colleagues, she fights against the sexist attitudes and injustices of her workplace and the class-divided society.

Rita's husband, Eddie, played by Daniel Mays was initially unsupportive of her actions, but eventually joins forces with her, as do a group of female machinists from other factories, colorfully portrayed by Bob Hoskins, Andrea Riseborough, and others.

Throughout the plot, made in Dagenham addresses wider socio-economic issues of its era. We follow the machinists into the wider world of politics as they demand fair pay and equality for women. As they strive for recognition, they receive skepticism and belittlement from both men and women in the government and the union, but not from their own husbands, who support them from the fringes.

The movie brings a feel-good factor throughout, even though tackling a fairly serious issue. The humor in the script shines throughout, and the performances of the cast are something to be commended. The storyline is dynamic and is enriched with powerful portrayals of female strength and cross-class solidarity. Sally Hawkins' performance as Rita is noteworthy, as she brings a level of heart to the character.

Made in Dagenham is a story that has relevance even in today's world, as women continue to fight for equality and fair pay in different parts of the world. It invites the audience to recognize and celebrate the battles and success overtaken by those brave people that have stepped out of their comfort zones to stand up for what is right.

Overall, Made in Dagenham is an enjoyable, inspiring and socially relevant film that combines humour and drama to highlight an essential time in the fight for women's equality. No doubt, it stands as a good nostalgic factor for the 1960s workers' fight for equal pay, and still significant in today's world. The performances of the cast, the articulate direction, and the well-written script make it an enjoyable watch that packs an emotional punch.

Made in Dagenham is a 2010 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 65.