
Feature film — 1987
Matewan (1987)
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.
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A high-signal pick with 147 votes.
Cinecom Entertainment Group / Film Gallery / Goldcrest Films International / Red Dog Films / Winwood Productions
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Director: John Sayles
On screen
Cast & crew

Chris Cooper
Joe Kenehan

James Earl Jones
'Few Clothes' Johnson

Mary McDonnell
Elma Radnor

Will Oldham
Danny Radnor

David Strathairn
Police Chief Sid Hatfield

Ken Jenkins
Sephus Purcell

Kevin Tighe
Bill Hickey

Gordon Clapp
Tom Griggs

Bob Gunton
C.E. Lively

Jace Alexander
Hilllard Elkins

Joe Grifasi
Fausto

Nancy Mette
Bridey Mae Tolliver
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