Review of Harlan County U.S.A. (1977) by Jim H — 22 Jul 2011

Coal miners strike against the company that exploits them and the union that doesn't always represent their interests.

In 1976 this was a ground-breaking film that deserved and won the Oscar for Best Documentary. Today it is still relevant. Many of the issues have changed, but the exploitation of coal miners, the corruption of the union, and the dangerous nature of the work have remained horrifyingly similar as the recent mine accidents attest.

The cinematography is fantastic. The film crew, working for over a year, was able to capture stark images of miners covered in coal dust, miners suffering the diseases that come with coal mining, scenes of violence that are shocking in their reality and nearness, and the overall spirit of the town. Interviews with many of the miners and company executives tell the story without the narration that we see in many of today's documentary, in which the documentarian is a central character in the film.

I think the most authentic element of the film is the soundtrack, which is comprised of union songs sung by the strikers themselves.

Overall, this documentary is wonderful in its ability to immerse the audience in the feeling, look, and culture of Harlan County.