"The Old Oak"

 2023 * Not Rated * 1h 53m  I thought this was a timely and powerful, film that displays the best and worst in humans. In light of the anti-immigrant sentiment in this country, I think everyone would do well to see this excellent film. It's directed by Ken Loach who's made a number of issue-driven movies over the years including I, Daniel Blake, Sorry We Missed You, and the absolutely wonderful The Angels' Share. 

The film takes place in a town in the Northeast of England. The local coal mines have all been shuttered and the people are just barely getting by. Life, to say the least, is a struggle. Then, due to the falling prices of homes in the depressed area, Syrian refugees start moving in. This gets the townsfolk all riled up. Most of them are fairly tolerant, but a few are pretty bitter about the situation. And they're quite vocal about it. 

The main focal point of the film is The Old Oak--the last pub where the locals hang out. It's run by TJ Ballantyne (Dave Turner) who's a quiet and decent man. He befriends a young Syrian Yara (Ebla Mari) who's recently moved into town with her family. He wants to help the locals and the recent emigres so he arranges free meals at the pub. Just about everyone in town chips in, but there's still a lot of friction caused by a few folks. 

The film is slow moving, and gently paced. It's a mixture of sadness and moments of hope and joy. The camerawork perfectly displays the gritty side of the town. And the acting is noteworthy. All the characters were totally believable. Overall, I found The Old Oak a moving take on how people are are afraid of things they're not familiar with. But in the end, they're all are basically good at heart. 

4 out of 5 stars

Note to parents: While the film is Not Rated, there's a fair amount of swearing in it. 

Currently streaming on Kanopy (free with your library card), and to rent on Apple TV and Amazon.