Review of Harlan County U.S.A. (1977) by Ben W — 18 Dec 2007

Now im no fan of barbara kopple but I have to say that this is a pretty spectacular documentary. its up in the ranks of grey gardens (though still not as good). the story of the coal miners is terribly interesting and it plays more like a drama than a documentary in many ways.

the miners attempts to unionize are struck down by the power company's greed. this, I realize, is a controversial thing to say, and I used to be on the other side of the debate, but after seeing the duplicity of energy companies for myself and viewing films like this even with some degree of skepticism the events of the story are too much to deny that these events are in fact happening and have been happening for some time.

but as for elements I was not partial to in this film, the music was actually very interesting throughout most of the film. however, some of the parts that dragged were weighed down by mediocre musical drivel.

there also seems to be a certain amount of duplicity in the whole mantra of the film. it is so very sympathetic to the miners but that extension doesnt seem to reach in but one direction and the carrying of concealed weapons was damned for the mine workers and seemed to be more condoned for the strikers.

civil disobedience is not something that should have a fall back plan of violent activity even in the face of the same kind of hostility fromthe oppressing side.