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Mar 21, 2014lukasevansherman rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
There have been quite a few political/socially engage political documentaries in the past decade, but few have the power and impact of Barbara Kopple's Oscar-winning film about a miner's strike in Kentucky. Michael Moore set an unfortunate precedent by choosing worthy subjects (9/11, gun control, corporations), but making himself the real star. This is a textbook example in how to let a people tell the story themselves with minimal director interference. There is truly some unbelievable footage here, from the crushing poverty the people live in to the violence of the strike breakers, who take a shot at the strikers and the camera crew. It will anger and inspire you, as the best docs should. I was originally inspired to watch this because the show "Justified" is set in Harlan County. This special edition includes a short making of documentary, an interview with John Sayles, an interview with one of the musicians featured on the excellent soundtrack and a Sundance anniversary of the film.