Dave (Rory Kinnear) is a kind-hearted man who loves to have fun. Living in Burnley, Lancashire, UK, Dave sells minibuses and owns seven dealerships. More importantly, Dave desires to help others within his community, particularly those struggling financially. After assisting a friend financially and helping them get a building contract, a comment is made to Dave that he should become a bank that helps the locals. Dave laughs the comment off at first but soon ponders the idea- what if he could open a bank that could help and serve the community?
The last time a new bank opened was one hundred and fifty years ago, let alone an independent man opening a bank. Now that Dave is pursuing the idea, he requires a lawyer’s assistance and involvement, and a lawyer named Hugh (Joel Fry) is assigned to his case. After a lengthy drive, Hugh meets with Dave and hears his passion and desires. Hugh clearly hears that Dave won’t back down and has even created a name- Bank of Dave. Driving Dave is his belief that the banks wouldn’t assist when people needed it. People have gained jobs and inner peace thanks to Dave and his generosity. As well as wanting to improve people’s quality of life, Dave clearly states that any profit the Bank of Dave makes will go to charity. As you may expect, Hugh is stunned and still feels that while Dave is passionate and wise, he is doubtful and feels that Dave doesn’t have a chance. As the case continues and the dream of creating the Bank of Dave moves forward, Dave and Hugh encounter several hurdles. Will Dave and Hugh’s passion and determination allow them to open their dream bank?
For those who need to be made aware, Bank of Dave is based on a true story. The film is quite uplifting and encouraging as it shares the story of a man passionate about helping others and making a significant difference. Hugh also carries tremendous importance throughout, and thanks to Dave, his mindset and heart also begin to change for the better. With such an uplifting tale presented on screen, it should be no surprise that the leading characters here are likeable, fun, and uplifting to watch. Dave is confident and witty but also filled with determination and passion. Sure, there are some moments and subplots which are either familiar or cliché, such as Hugh finding an unlikely romance with Dave’s niece, Alexandra (Phoebe Dynevor), or the fact that there is some foul play from bankers trying to stop Dave from opening his bank, including Sir Charles (Hugh Bonneville), but in the end, I still enjoyed this film greatly. It’s a great combination of both comedy and drama mixed.
Overall, have you ever heard of Bank of Dave? Well, I hadn’t until now! This is quite an uplifting story of one man who had a heart for others and a determination to make a change, impacting the lives of many. It’s a fun film carrying some great moments of drama along the way, and it has leading characters who are likeable and maintain an enjoyable presence on-screen. While the main story is great and touching, some moments here are cliché or forced, including a romantic subplot. Ultimately, I felt great while viewing this, and it’s impossible not to be charmed or pleased by this feature. I admired the true story being presented on-screen.
6.5/10
4th June 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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