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Dreamers

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After living illegally in the UK for two years, Nigerian migrant ISIO is caught and sent to Hatchworth Removal Centre, where she hopes her plea for asylum will be given a fair hearing. Isio is convinced that the only way out is to play by the rules, even when her charismatic new roommate, FARAH, warns her otherwise. As Isio adjusts to life in the removal centre, she finds herself falling for Farah, and becoming close to her group of friends, NANA and ATEFEH. Her faith begins to wane as her asylum pleas are rejected, but as her feelings for Farah deepen, Farah suggests a plan to escape so that their love can survive. A stubborn Isio refuses, still fixated on doing things the right way, but when events beyond their control threaten the promise of a new life together, Isio realises that the only way forward is to create her own playbook. Freedom is elusive, but love is eternal.

Critics Reviews

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Amon Warmann Empire Magazine Dec 12
4/5
A bold and tender story well told, and elevated by its personal nature. This is a strong debut from Gharoro-Akpojotor — she’s one to watch. Go to Full Review
David Jenkins Little White Lies Dec 8
3/5
Dreamers is slight but effective, and perhaps doesn’t quite come back from a twist that occurs about two thirds of the way in when Isio’s situation suddenly changes. Go to Full Review
Leslie Felperin Guardian Dec 2
4/5
Thanks to subtle, considered performances, a finely milled script, inventive craftsmanship and a deep sense of empathy for the precarious lives of refugees, it packs a considerable wallop. Go to Full Review
James Saynor The Arts Desk Dec 10
4/5
Performances, particularly from Adekoluejo, are punchy, and even actors thanklessly playing the guards hit precise chords of indifference. Go to Full Review
Andrew Murray The Upcoming Dec 3
3/5
Despite stumbling towards the end, Gharoro-Akpojotor has nevertheless created a moving tale of female empowerment in this heartfelt feature. Go to Full Review
Sarah Manvel Movies We Texted About Oct 30
It’s wonderful to see a work of art that isn’t interested in appeasement. It knows what the right thing is and dares you to agree with it. Go to Full Review
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Movie Info

Synopsis After living illegally in the UK for two years, Nigerian migrant ISIO is caught and sent to Hatchworth Removal Centre, where she hopes her plea for asylum will be given a fair hearing. Isio is convinced that the only way out is to play by the rules, even when her charismatic new roommate, FARAH, warns her otherwise. As Isio adjusts to life in the removal centre, she finds herself falling for Farah, and becoming close to her group of friends, NANA and ATEFEH. Her faith begins to wane as her asylum pleas are rejected, but as her feelings for Farah deepen, Farah suggests a plan to escape so that their love can survive. A stubborn Isio refuses, still fixated on doing things the right way, but when events beyond their control threaten the promise of a new life together, Isio realises that the only way forward is to create her own playbook. Freedom is elusive, but love is eternal.
Director
Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor, Anna Patarakina
Producer
Emily Morgan
Screenwriter
Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor
Production Co
Quiddity Films
Genre
Drama
Original Language
English
Runtime
1h 18m