Work, Struggle, and Emancipation: Matewan

Taking inspiration from the exhibition “History, Labor, Life: The Prints of Jacob Lawrence,” the Crocker is proud to present a monthly series of four films that highlight issues faced by working class people seeking to live the American dream. Written and directed by John Sayles (Lone Star), Matewan tells the true story of a 1920s coal miners’ strike that turned violent in the West Virginia town of Matewan. Starring Chris Cooper in his film debut and James Earl Jones — whose performance “practically glows in the dark” (Variety) — Matewan offers stirring storytelling with themes that are as relevant today as they were 100 years ago.