Written and directed by Pip Swallow, after being passed over for a big promotion at work, Miranda discovers that she can control the world via her model railway. A derailed woman, tries to mould herself to the institution but ultimately finding the power within to create her own. Starring: Rhoda Ofori-Attah, Steen Raskopoulos and Clive Anderson.
In this day and age there’s a huge market for dark, violent or brooding cinema, so much so that people can forget the value of films that are sweet, wholesome and fun, that’s what you get with Dream Big. The atmosphere it creates is undeniably cute, there’s a 1970s edge to its feel, creating something that has a family-friendly air, even though it’s not made for all ages. It has an underlying dark sense of humour which only occasionally peppers the proceedings but it’s plenty to bring everything together strongly.
Part of its friendly and lovable charm is the personality and style that Rhoda Ofori-Attah’s Miranda has to offer. Firstly, the costuming work gives her an old-fashioned sensibility which is fun to see, in a climate where most films make their leading women ultra-modern. It helps to give her a big dose of kindness, pushing her towards that classic over-politeness where you don’t truly go after what you want, leading her to this taste of power. Then there’s Ofori-Attah’s performance itself, it is genuinely adorable but in no way does she feel meek, there’s a strength beneath the surface. She may hold back but there’s still the clear sense that she’s a woman who knows who she is and what she wants. She’s the heart of the film and is the type of character you can happily keep watching.
The style of the film reflects those choices, it has a softened, warm palette to lean into that kind and thoughtful feel. There’s also almost a cartoon type touch to how it unfolds and the use of the score, giving that essence of classic children’s television, especially with the model railway. It has a good pacing but could move a tad faster, as while it has a great energy, it feels like there was the potential for more. As if it just needed something to liven things up and boost the film’s personality further.
Dream Big has an endearing charm and blends a wholesome atmosphere with a dark sense of humour with impressive balance. There’s a familiar element to the story in its tale of getting a taste of power and using it to your advantage but it still feels plenty original. Rhoda Ofori-Attah’s performance as Miranda is extremely charming and she has a slightly quirky yet old-fashioned edge that’s really enjoyable to watch.
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