Pretty Red Dress

I went to go and watch this film for free as I am a member at Picturehouse. As a crossdresser/gender explorer myself. All I can say is finally we have some accurate representation in the media! I could relate to a lot in this film, and it was beautiful to watch. It's a film that explores masculinity, gender expression, and family issues. Every character is relatable in their own way. I wasn't too sure at first about Alexandra Burke's acting but as the film went on I was certainly impressed. Ignore the negative reviews about this film, it deserves a much higher score. Thankyou for making the film we very much needed!

Alexandra Burke is just brilliant in this. I am often sceptical when someone that isn't naturally an actor dips their toes into trying to act but I really think Alexandra has a future in films and I hope this serves as an introduction to her talents. However the film itself possibly lets her down in places. I thought it was a little predictable and therefore disappointing at times. That is not to say that I didn't enjoy it and I would recommend seeing it. I suppose it helps if you're a Londoner and would maybe find it a little more relatable. Very sweary throughout, which has its place in some films yet seems gratuitous in others. I was really curious about this one but overall a good experience.

A stretch in prison brings you back to your sweetheart, it's a year that you've been separate and apart, life's quite tough when you're a felon, when you wish you had some melons, just to pop inside a dress, with firm support. And then the chance arrives to get yourself made up, and add some padding to your wife's lacy bra cups, pop some scarlet on the lips, waltzing around to shake your hips, you look amazing in that red tasselled getup. It's not too long before you're found with your pants down, it causes consternation and a great big frown, you try to work your way around, but deep inside you're glad your found, you are relieved, released to wander around town.

Here's a sensitive and contemporary take on love, identity, sexuality, expectations, kindness and the human condition. It doesn't need labels or explanations and can cope with and hold ambiguity. It likes and respects all of its main protagonists and does not feel the need to fall victim to simplicity. All the more, you identify with the characters, and it feels encouraging that there is room for emotion amidst all those somewhat 2-dimensional contemporary labelling efforts. Be feminine whilst being masculine, be real, be vulnerable, take a risk, take a stand for your feelings but don't hurt others in the process - in fact, don't just me me me, bur really let them matter (to you) too. Recommended.

A beautiful, heart warming and enjoyable debut film from Dionne Edwards, with brilliant performances from the whole cast, especially Alexandra Burke, Natey Jones & Temilola Olatunbosun. Deftly explores masculinity, family dynamics and gender expression. Was particularly impressed with AB as I had not seen her act before but she really pulled it out of the bag. South London makes the perfect setting for the film and its beauty is on full display. Lots of fantastic music throughout.

Important for these stories to be told, now more than ever. Deserves to have a wide audience and lots of success...