Directed by Ken Loach
2023 | M | 1 hour 53 mins | Belgium, France UK | Arabic, English, Dutch

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The great Ken Loach and his regular writer Paul Laverty reunite for this Palme d'Or-nominated drama centred on the last remaining pub in an area that's become ideal for housing Syrian refugees. The Old Oak is the last pub standing, and the only remaining public space where people can meet in a once-thriving mining community that has seen thirty hard years of decline. TJ Ballantyne, the landlord, hangs on to The Old Oak by his fingertips, and his predicament is endangered even more when the pub becomes contested territory after the arrival of Syrian refugees who are placed in the village without any notice. In an unlikely friendship, TJ meets a curious young Syrian woman, Yara and so unfolds a deeply moving drama about their fragilities and hopes.

Producer: Rebecca O'Brien
Screenplay: Paul Laverty
Music: George Fenton
Cinematography: Robbie Ryan
Cast: Dave Turner, Ebla Mari, Claire Rodgerson, Trevor Fox, Chris McGlade, Col Tait, Jordan Louis, Joe Armstrong