Pretty Red Dress - A Heartfelt Music Drama That Leaves a Lasting Impression
In the feature debut of writer-director Dionne Edwards, "Pretty Red Dress" shines with warmth, humor, sadness, and tenderness. This big-hearted film tackles themes of masculinity with humanity and grace, propelled by outstanding performances from Natey Jones, Alexandra Burke, and the talented newcomer Temilola Olatunbosun.
Burke, a renowned West End performer and X Factor winner, portrays Candice, a singer on the verge of a breakthrough role as Tina Turner in a major musical. However, her personal life is far from perfect. Her teenage daughter Kenisha (Olatunbosun) is facing difficulties at school, and her partner, Travis (Jones), has recently been released from prison, sporting an ankle tag that adds a touch of menace to his presence.
Travis, once a DJ and music entrepreneur, dreams of making it big alongside Candice. Despite his tough exterior, he reveals a romantic and chivalrous side. In a heartfelt gesture, he purchases a stunning red dress for Candice's audition, taking on a demeaning job to afford it. The dress becomes a symbolic presence, hanging on their bedroom door, embodying their hopes and dreams. However, as Travis spends his days alone in their apartment, he becomes fascinated by the dress's sensuality, leading him to question how it would feel to wear it himself.
The film navigates an inevitable moment of tension when Candice unexpectedly returns home early one afternoon. Jones and Burke deliver this scene with exceptional flair, showcasing Travis's attempt to save face while Candice grapples with shock, confusion, and a desperate desire to maintain the image she had of their relationship. As secrets and lies multiply, their daughter Kenisha gets entangled in the cover-up, adding further emotional weight to the narrative.
"Pretty Red Dress" bears a resemblance to Julian Jarrold's 2005 comedy "Kinky Boots," where Chiwetel Ejiofor portrays a drag artist helping a factory produce custom-made shoes with reinforced heels for male performers. Similarly, the pretty red dress in this film proves unsuitable for Travis's male physique, resulting in a disastrous tear. With its potential for an intimate exploration of characters, it wouldn't be surprising if "Pretty Red Dress" were adapted into a stage musical, capitalizing on Burke's immense talent. However, there's a risk of losing the film's complexity and intimacy in a theatrical version.
This intensely likable film captivates audiences with its trio of stellar performances. Edwards skillfully balances warmth and poignancy, crafting a narrative that resonates long after the credits roll. "Pretty Red Dress" debuted at the London Film Festival and is set to released on June 16, 2022, in UK and Irish cinemas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Pretty Red Dress" is a heartfelt music drama that impresses with its exploration of masculinity and exceptional performances. Dionne Edwards's directorial debut showcases her ability to create an intimate and emotionally resonant story. With its big-hearted approach and memorable characters, this film leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
Pretty Red Dress (2022) - info
- Release date: June 16, 2023
- Genre: Drama
- Director: Dionne Edwards
- Writer: Dionne Edwards
- Stars: Natey Jones, Alexandra Burke, Temilola Olatunbosun