Writer: Dhivashini

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Watch this if you liked: “Milk”, “North Country” and “Norma Rae”

From the filmmaker who brought the 2009 film "Calendar Girls" to the silver screen, Nigel Cole directs this uplifting breath of fresh air that portrays the fight for sexual equality back in the 1960's. With the help of Sally Hawkins (Rita O'Grady), Bob Hoskins (Albert Passingham), Miranda Richardson (Secretary of State, Barbara Castle) and Rosamund Pike (Lisa Hopkins), audiences will be presented with a predictable storyline, but "Made in Dagenham" promises to win hearts at the end through the portrayal of working-class triumph.

It kicks off with a little of History lesson where audiences get a feel of the Ford car factory in the suburbs of London back in 1968, accompanied by facts and figures to get the ball rolling. The mounting frustration of the women folk and their low wages after being dubbed as "unskilled" labor takes a turn of empowerment when Rita steps up to the plate to lead her colleagues in a fight for equality. Her courage and vulnerability as portrayed by Sally Hawkins is delightful to watch as she bravely takes on challenges along the way while showing a hint of charm and with that will make audiences smile.

Notable characters like Albert and Barbara Castle portrayed by Bob Hoskins and Miranda Richardson respectively show Rita that there is a reason she was chosen to lead the stand. They prove to be her biggest cheerleaders both inside and out of the boardrooms. The well-written script provides elements of humor to show that this courageous fight for equality also has a silver lining. The side characters fit the stereotyped portrayal of working-class society back in the 60's providing an element of entertainment.

A period drama proves to be best if accompanied by music hits from the noted time. David Arnold does just that with hits by "The Temptations" and "Mama Cass" to name a few to uplift the mood of audiences and take them back to the 60's.

"Made in Dagenham" is a period drama that doesn't require you to be well versed with societal issues and politics back in London during the 60's. It gives off warmth when it ends with interviews of women who were part of the actual strike for this fight of equality. This true story of having the Equal Pay Act 1970 being legalized in a playful manner proves to be a winner not only with female but the male audience as well.

Cinema Online, 16 November 2011