Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Dave Johns | ... | Daniel Blake | |
Hayley Squires | ... | Katie | |
Briana Shann | ... | Daisy | |
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Dylan McKiernan | ... | Dylan (as Dylan Phillip McKiernan) |
Kate Rutter | ... | Ann | |
Sharon Percy | ... | Sheila | |
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Kema Sikazwe | ... | China |
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Steven Richens | ... | Piper |
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Amanda Payne | ... | Employment Support Allowance Assessor |
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Chris Mcglade | ... | At the Sawmill (as Chris McGlade) |
Shaun Prendergast | ... | At the Sawmill | |
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Gavin Webster | ... | At the Sawmill |
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Sammy T. Dobson | ... | Specialist Nurse |
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Mickey Hutton | ... | Neighbour with dog |
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Colin Coombs | ... | Postman |
A 59 year old carpenter recovering from a heart attack befriends a single mother and her two kids as they navigate their way through the impersonal, Kafkaesque benefits system. With equal amounts of humor, warmth and despair, the journey is heartfelt and emotional until the end.
This is an excellent movie. Brilliantly written and directed, this is a no holds barred look at the British benefits system and how it dehumanises people who need State funded help.
The two lead characters have gripping back stories. Daniel and Kate help each other come to terms with how the State sees them as nothing but a number and an unwanted burden.
The movie is gritty, heart breaking and funny in parts. It is a social commentary that Ken Loach is so good at, showing what a great filmmaker he is. This is not a feel good movie but it is a rewarding and thought provoking watch.