The Old Oak (2023) England
Screenplay by Paul Laverty
Directed by Ken Loach
Thursday June 19th
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre
Doors Open: 6.30pm
The local
publican of a previously thriving mining community battles to keep his pub open
after the mines close … tensions rise in the town when Syrian refugees arrive
to live in houses left empty after mining closures.
The old Oak
becomes a beacon of hope in an otherwise cruel and vicious world where people
must choose between affording heating or food.
The story
revolves around a town in Northern England where unemployed miners and a group
of Syrian refugees must learn to share The Old Oak- the only public gathering
place .
Publican TJ
Bannatyne (Dan Turner) grows to know and appreciate Yara (Ebla Mari) and her
refugee family as they organise a food initiative for the struggling mining
community.
The movie speaks poignantly about both issues in the British political scene: unemployment and poverty. Direction by Ken Loach is matched with beautiful cinematography and excellent acting, however The Old Oak highlights the humanity of a community that works together regardless of origin, religion or skin colour.
Review by Clotilde Chinnici
“The Old Oak”
Movie / Wine
themes:
The Old Oak …and other trees (most only apparent on the label)
Oakridge
(Yarra Valley) Pinot Noir, various years
Tempus Two
(NSW) Shiraz 2022
Sidewood
(Adelaide Hills) Sauvignon Blanc 2024
Banrock
Station (southeast) Pink Moscato 2024
The challenge of bringing together
locals and refugees, with the pub owner as middleman
The Blend,
Balnaves of Coonawarra Blended Red, 2020
In the
Middle (NSW) Chardonnay 2024
