4. 90-second Statements

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:31 pm on 9 June 2021.

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Photo of Rhianon Passmore Rhianon Passmore Labour 3:31, 9 June 2021

Diolch, Deputy Presiding Officer. The constituency of Islwyn, which I represent, is made up of very strong communities of, in the main, working-class men and women, who continue to dream of a better tomorrow, even though our todays have never, ever been more challenging. So, that the Hollywood movie giants Warner Brothers Pictures recently portrayed Islwyn and Wales on the silver screen with the wonderful and iconic film Dream Horse, which premiered in sunny Blackwood—now playing across the UK at cinemas open—is a moment of both joy and excitement. And that positive portrayal of Wales in film, and the story of Jan and Brian Vokes and the syndicate who bred a Welsh Grand National-winning horse on an allotment in Cefn Fforest, has won great reviews. And it also adds to our home-made renaissance in Welsh film and television. So, if you're yet to see it, it is a positive tale of strong community spirit in Islwyn, with an A-list cast, including Oscar-nominated Toni Collette, in Wales, and our own Owen Teale. The production of the film utilised locations throughout south Wales, including Blaenavon.

Wales—well, we are a self-confident nation, and we grow globally when we tell in film and television and arts and literature, music and theatre those positive stories of our people and our communities, as Dream Horse portrays so very effectively. And that ability to utilise Welsh creative talent in front of and behind our cameras is so critical, and vital to our cultural and economic future. Wales, our people, and our hwyl are skilfully writ large in Dream Horse, and it exemplifies our spirit and our international future. So, the Welsh Government and our cultural agencies are right to heavily support and promote productions made in Wales that tell of Wales's story to the world and also promote the Welsh creative sectors post-COVID. Dream Horse powerfully illustrates that Cefn Fforest in Islwyn is a place where dreams still come true, and I do urge all Members to watch this exciting and innovative film. Thank you.