STAR RATINGS EXPLAINED

Classic

Excellent

Good

Fair

Tragic

FILM DETAILS

Certificate 15

Cast Chris Cooper Will Oldham Jace Alexander Ken Jenkins

Directors John Sayles

Screenwriters John Sayles

Running Time 132 minutes

Matewan (15)

Plot
In a company-owned coal-mining town in West Virginia in 1920, off-the-boat Italians and donwtrodden Alabama blacks are brought in to replace the striking local work force. Joe Kenehan, a labour organiser, tries to bring the new workers into the union, while the company’s hired thugs try to force a shoot-out.

Verdict
Chris Cooper's superb performance and numerous authentic details makes this a little gem


Reviewer: Kim Newman

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