Synopsis
In a former mining community in Durham, The Old Oak pub is the last remaining social refuge for many of its regulars. Owner TJ is an active volunteer, helping local charities deliver supplies to families in need. When Syrian refugees arrive in town, TJ befriends Yara – a talented photographer and advocate for her fellow Syrians. However, TJ’s welcoming approach towards the new arrivals leads to tensions with some of his pub’s loyal patrons.
Ken Loach (I, Daniel Blake, Sorry We Missed You) directs this timely drama – his final film – that argues passionately in favour of social solidarity and inclusion. Loach and his regular screenwriter Paul Laverty refuse to tone down the complexity of the situations portrayed – for TJ, doing the right thing comes at great personal cost.
Festival & Awards
Cannes Film Festival 2023 – Palme d’Or Nominee
Quotes
★★★★ “A little solidarity goes a long way in the great film-maker’s final offering”
– The Irish Times
★★★★ “I hope that this isn’t Loach’s final film, but if it is, he has concluded with a ringing statement of faith in compassion for the oppressed”
– The Guardian
★★★★ “The film unfolds with a fierce crackle”
– Financial Times
Film Info
113 mins | UK, France | 2023 | Cert: 15A
Director:
Ken Loach
Cast:
Dave Turner, Ebla Mari, Claire Rogerson, Trevor Fox