Harlan County War

While I was excited to watch the film I was disappointed that there was no option for subtitles. I had my hearing aid adjusted as well as the audio on my TV but missed 90% of the dialogue particularly the higher pitched, nasal twangs.

From a background of West Virginia I really wanted to enjoy this film. I know the history of the miners' strikes and Appalachian hardships...while the producers were sure to add Spanish language they ignored subtitling for hearing impaired viewers. Since this site values length rather than quality I suppose I need to relate how my grandfather was born in Wheeling VA before it even became West Virginia . Thank yoiu.

I have spent my entire life in Harlan County, Kentucky. Growing up, working and now raising my own children here. To those of you who believe this movie has anything real to teach you about my home, I can tell you it has only a minimal similarity to reality. It is based on a nearly thirty-year-old Oscar-winning film, Harlan County USA, which for a documentary about the 1970s-era strike at Eastover Mining Company was one of the most complete works of fiction ever created. This admittedly fictionalized version of that original fiction doesn't look like Harlan County, sound like Harlan County, or even remotely evoke Harlan County, which at least the documentary did, even though most of its details were way out of whack. Although stereotypes abound, I can recommend this movie as a competent piece of fiction and a satisfying, though somewhat overwrought, drama. In short, typical made-for-TV fodder. But don't for one minute think it resembles real people or real life in Harlan County, Kentucky in any useful way. That story doesn't exist yet in the minds of producers anywhere. Appalachia and the entertainment industry have yet to understand one another.

This movie works well on many different levels. Holly Hunter is

brilliant as Ruby Kincaid the wife of Silas - the story shows how

her strength of heart and will comes from an inner belief and drive.

the movie also shows how tough it can be at the sharp end of

labor and management battles - the final line where guns are

drawn, both sides back away and then one man is killed before

serious and ultimately successful negotiations are made is very

stark.

The score is also very well done.

This is a powerful movie with superbly crafted characters. It's beautifully shot and captures the gritty realism of Appalachia, its hardships, its humanity, its humour. Holly Hunter has created an endearing character. But so are all the other principles. No stereotypes here but honest portraits of real working class people. This is one of the best labour movies I've ever seen.

In the tradition of "Norma Rae," this honest and commendable account of the on-going "class warfare" in Bloody Harlan County between the coal mine workers and the mine owners provides a gritty history lesson, especially for young viewers unfamiliar with this vital chapter in our labor struggles. Holly Hunter is nothing less than magnificent, as is the entire cast superbly directed by Tony Bill. The authetic music of Appallachia aids considerably to this must-see film.