Bank of Dave is based on true events (Image: NETFLIX)
The ‘Bank of Dave’ phenomenon is set to hit Netflix once again with a sequel that promises to be even more impactful than its predecessor. Rory Kinnear returns as Dave Fishwick, the man on a mission to tackle predatory payday loan companies head-on.
The new film picks up two years after Dave’s successful establishment of his community bank, following him and his allies, including an American journalist and a Citizen’s Advice counsellor, as they take their fight to the heart of the payday loan industry in the United States.
Inspired by the true story of Dave Fishwick’s crusade against exploitative lenders in the 2010s, the sequel delves into the partnership between Dave and his ‘right-hand man’ David Henshaw as they confront these financial giants.
Recounting his real-life battle, Dave shared with the Lancashire Telegraph: “David H and I decided to go after [the lenders]. I’d met people who’d tried to run away from home because of the terrible things that were happening to them through the payday loan industry.”
“David H and I decided to get in touch with these people [who were writing us letters] as we could probably give them a loan that’s much cheaper, and then I’d pay this loan back to the payday loan companies. People were bursting into tears.”
Rory Kinnear is Dave Fishwick (Image: NETFLIX)
“It was really emotional. So I set off to London to find these payday loan companies. I’m banging on doors.”
“Some of them are just cupboards with a telephone number. They were hiding. They actually would not take the money back.”
“They prey on the poor and vulnerable, and the movie catches that brilliantly.”
While the broad outlines of the story are true, some aspects were exaggerations and inventions for the film. One of which was an appearance by the rock band Def Leppard, as in the film, the band performs at a fundraising concert.
This was entirely made up and was purely based on the fact Fishwick himself is a huge fan.
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Bank of Dave airs on Netflix on January 10 (Image: NETFLIX)
Perhaps the most significant change is regarding Dave’s application to become an officially regulated bank.
In real life, Dave has still not been successful with his application and Burnley Savings and Loans Limited is still not technically a bank.
This means customers only able to deposit a limited amount.
Financial Solicitor Chris Moss has worked closely with Dave and he opened up to Myerson about his experience.
He said: “I have been working with Dave for over 11 years, and when he first spoke to me about starting a community bank, I knew only Dave could be the person to make that happen with a little help.”
“He is full of determination and passionate about supporting his local community, and he was portrayed very accurately by Rory Kinnear. I understand Dave worked very closely with the cast and had a great time building the script and making the film happen.”