Review of Harlan County U.S.A. (1977) by Matt G — 22 Jul 2008

This film is absolutely impressive and it lives up to the cinematic classic masterpiece that it is hyped up to be. Barbara Kopple makes a film that is truly engaging from start to finish. She smashes through the regular Southern stereotypes and she shows us a complex and genuine portrait of working class struggle against the coal industry.

She is able to do this by no tricks or narration, but just simple, focused observation, capturing moments while they happen. It captures a part of history that is too often glossed over in the South and nationwide in general.

Another really strong point to this film is the organizers anthems sung by true Southern/Appalachian musicians with such heart and conviction. This adds to the experience of watching the film and it really assists the film even further, by helping show and tell a story about hardworking Southern Americans.

I understand some of my love of this film may come from my own biases for the working man as well as the South, with my mother being born and raised in Kentucky; but I challenge anyone to see this film and not be partially affected by it.

At the very least, I feel like people would find this to be a classic documentary and well worth their time.