Review: Pride

An unlikely alliance is forged between gay and lesbian activists, and striking miners in a small Welsh town.

While watching a television newscast a gay and lesbian activist comes up with the idea of fundraising for striking miners; he rallies his troops but finds it hard to get different mining communities to accept the charitable donations because of the sexual orientation of the group.

A decision is made to approach a small Welsh town which decides to accept the offer of monetary support to the dismay of some its residents.  When the partnership is exposed, the public backlash threatens to derail the initiative which has a significant impact upon the gay and lesbian rights movement.

There are some fine acting performances.  Dominic West (John Carter) gets to let loose as a flamboyant personality who certainly knows his dance moves.   Paddy Considine (The World’s End) effectively portrays a decent and grateful miner who is trying to make the best out of an extremely difficult situation.  Imelda Staunton (Vera Drake) embodies a determined and forceful woman who could command an army.

Pride comes across as an ordinary story which is a shame considering the extraordinary historical circumstances and consequences.   There are plot twists but the drama and humour feel more formulaic than organic.  However, if you enjoy British working class comedies like Kinky Boots, The Full Monty, Calendar Girls, and Made in Dageham then Pride will not be a disappointment.

Trevor Hogg is a freelance video editor and writer who currently resides in Canada; he can be found at LinkedIn.