Matewan (1987)
Matewan is a 1987 drama movie directed by John Sayles, with a running time of 2h 12m. It stars Chris Cooper, James Earl Jones and Mary McDonnell.
Filmed in the coal country of West Virginia, "Matewan" celebrates labor organizing in the context of a 1920s work stoppage. Union organizer, Joe Kenehan, a scab named "Few Clothes" Johnson and a sympathetic mayor and police chief heroically fight the power represented by a coal company and Matewan's vested interests so that justice and workers' rights need not take a back seat to squalid working conditions, exploitation and the bottom line.
Quick answers
What is Matewan about?
Filmed in the coal country of West Virginia, "Matewan" celebrates labor organizing in the context of a 1920s work stoppage. Union organizer, Joe Kenehan, a scab named "Few Clothes" Johnson and a sympathetic mayor and police chief heroically fight the power represented by a coal company and Matewan's vested interests so that justice and workers' rights need not take a back seat to squalid working conditions, exploitation and the bottom line.
When was Matewan released?
Matewan was released on 28 August 1987.
How long is Matewan?
Matewan runs 2h 12m.
Who made Matewan?
Matewan was directed by John Sayles.
Cast
- Chris Cooper as Joe Kenehan
- James Earl Jones as 'Few Clothes' Johnson
- Mary McDonnell as Elma Radnor
- Will Oldham as Danny Radnor
- David Strathairn as Police Chief Sid Hatfield
- Ken Jenkins as Sephus Purcell
- Kevin Tighe as Bill Hickey
- Gordon Clapp as Tom Griggs
- Bob Gunton as C.E. Lively
- Jace Alexander as Hilllard Elkins
- Joe Grifasi as Fausto
- Nancy Mette as Bridey Mae Tolliver