The highly anticipated sequel to the original film Bank of Dave, titled Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger, is set to premiere globally on January 10, 2025. This sequel promises to build upon the inspiring story of Dave Fishwick, Britain's first community banker, by taking on the predatory payday loan industry.
Directed once again by Chris Foggin, who successfully helmed the first installment, the sequel aims to expand its narrative scope significantly. Foggin revealed on social media, "The scale of this sequel is much bigger than the first movie," indicating fans can expect more intensity and engagement. The director's earlier work includes notable films like This Is Christmas and Fisherman’s Friends, and he has built substantial anticipation for this follow-up.
The sequel is set two years after Fishwick establishes Britain’s first community bank, focusing on his fight against the payday loan companies notorious for their high interest rates and exploitative practices. This time around, Fishwick enlists the help of Jessica, portrayed by Chrissy Metz, known for her role on This Is Us, and Oliver, played by local Citizen’s Advice counselor, to confront these powerful corporations.
Together, this dynamic trio’s mission expands to include travel across the Atlantic to the United States, which serves as the backdrop for their confrontation with the payday lending industry. This plot development aligns closely with Fishwick’s real-life activism against these financial practices, which he has been vocal about during the 2010s.
The cast boasts both returning and new faces. Rory Kinnear reprises his role as Dave Fishwick, bringing continuity to the beloved character. The sequel also features Rob Delaney from Catastrophe as Carlo Macini, and Hugh Bonneville, known for his work on Downton Abbey, portrays Sir Charles. Additional cast members include Dan Fogler, Leila Farzad, and musical talents such as rock legends Def Leppard, who are set to perform in the film.
The production for Bank of Dave 2 began filming in late February 2024 and is projected to conclude by the end of March 2024. Key locations for filming include Yorkshire and London, supplemented by scenes shot in Burnley, where Fishwick's community bank is based. These locales contribute authenticity to the film, providing viewers with familiar settings from the original movie.
The film’s screenplay is written by Piers Ashworth, who has collaborated closely with producers Karl Hall and Piers Tempest to create a narrative that's both entertaining and socially relevant. Cinematography for the film is handled by Mike Stern Sterzynski, with editing led by Mark Thornton, ensuring the final product meets high production standards.
All the pieces seem to be aligning for the premiere, with fans from the original movie expressing excitement about the sequel. According to Dave Fishwick himself, the film has set higher stakes: “The sequel will be bigger and more impactful, taking on more formidable opponents than ever before, which includes actual industry players.” This quote captures the essence of the venture, representing not just entertainment but also the mission to bring awareness to financial injustices.
Inviting audiences to witness Fishwick's next chapter, the film aims to blend elements of drama with advocacy, stirring conversations around the need for reform in lending practices. With such strong community support and international themes, Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger is positioned to resonate well with viewers and critics alike.
Overall, this engaging story of resilience, community, and justice encapsulated within the framework of entertainment offers much more than just cinema; it's set to challenge perceptions around payday loans and shine light on financial fairness. Set your calendars for January 2025, as the world will soon witness this heartfelt sequel's debut.