Saturday, November 13, 2010

Last Friends function for 2010 ... Made in Dagenham

 
Made in Dagenham
October 28, 2010 (Australian release date)
Dir: Nigel Cole

 1968. It's a man's world. But not for long...

In 1968 a group of female workers walked off the job at the Ford Dagenham car plant. Their demands were simple; end sexual discrimination and be given equal pay. Rita O'Grady (Sally Hawkins) leads the protest with the support of union rep Albert Passingham (Bob Hoskins). Rounding out this delightful cast is Miranda Richardson as First Secretary of State, Barbara Castle; the always charming Rosamund Pike as the wife of one of the Ford bosses, and Geraldine James as Connie, close friend and co-worker to Rita.

From the director of Calendar Girls is the line being pushed pretty hard and with reason, this film, despite detailing a monumental historic event, is handled with pink frilly gloves. This makes for a thoroughly entertaining film but one that lacks strength in many places. The characters have been created and not based on actual people, and the archival footage of the real women of the Ford Dagenham plant that plays over the film's closing credits feels at odds with the film we've just seen.

There's no denying Sally Hawkins makes this film, she's charming and funny and really nails the feisty underdog role. While women are known to be emotional creatures it was disappointing to see the female characters so often appear to be holding back tears or acting out of emotion when attempting to portray strong characters. The film is, however, consistently funny. There's a scene that comes to mind in the plant, when a young man enters the women's work room there's a delightful reversal of gender roles - this time it is the women clawing and wolf whistling at the man and you can't help but at least smile.



Made in Dagenham is a sweet treat of a film with great performances and a fun approach to a very meaningful moment in the women's liberation movement. The film captures the period perfectly with wonderful costumes and music.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

The Ghost Writer

Have you seen this movie?  I just viewed it yesterday and have to say it is one of the best movies I've seen this year.  Check out the times and try to make it to the cinema to see this exceptional movie directed by Roman Polanski.

View Trailer

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

International Film Festival Schedule up now!

Visit the Sawtell Cinema website to view the schedule of screenings for the International Film Festival!  It is going to be fantastic with some great viewing on offer.

November 19th at 6:30 pm for drinks and food,
The Waiting Game screening at 7:30.
All tickets only $13.00

http://www.firstavecinema.com.au/

Monday, October 11, 2010

The Waiting City kicks off Sawtell's International Film Festival

Like movies from around the globe?  Make sure you keep the week of November 18th free because for one week only movies from France, Germany, Italy, Australia, NZ & the UK will be on show.
For screening times check the First Avenue Cinema website for details
International Film Festival Schedule


Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Boy trailers and reviews

Boy

ABC At the Movies review of BOY

Interested in supporting Independent cinema? Become a member of Friends of Sawtell Cinema!

The sceening of BOY on October 21st was a great success!  Over 75 people turned out on a chilly spring evening to share in an evening of drinks, food and a fantastic movie.  The movie was absolutely adorable, with the charming character of "boy!"
Come and meet people like yourself who love Independent Cinema!