Matewan
It takes more than guns to kill a man.
1987 • 132 min • Drama · History
Synopsis
Filmed in the coal country of West Virginia, "Matewan" celebrates labor organizing in the context of a 1920s work stoppage. Union organizer, Joe Kenehan, a scab named "Few Clothes" Johnson and a sympathetic mayor and police chief heroically fight the power represented by a coal company and Matewan's vested interests so that justice and workers' rights need not take a back seat to squalid working conditions, exploitation and the bottom line.
Our family guide
Best from age 13- 74 Audience · 140 · 100%
Set in 1920s West Virginia, this drama depicts a community of coal miners fighting for fair treatment against a powerful company. It highlights the struggles of early labor organizing and the tensions that arise when people stand up for their rights. The film is based on a true story.
- Violence & peril
- 6/10
- Language
- 3/10
- Drinking, drugs & smoking
- 4/10
- Romance & sensuality
- 1/10
- Scary moments
- 4/10
Heads up
- Depicts historical violence and a gun battle.
- Shows characters using tobacco and alcohol.
- Includes some strong language.
- Racial prejudice is present in the historical context.
What it models well
- Standing up for justice
- Community solidarity
- Perseverance against injustice
- Seeking fair treatment
Talk about it after
- The history of labor unions and workers' rights.
- What it means to fight for justice.
- The challenges of poverty and exploitation.
- The impact of economic power on communities.
Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for Matewan. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.
Where to watch
Stream
- Amazon Prime Video
- Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Amazon Prime Video
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Top billed cast
Director: John Sayles • Crew: John Sayles
Trailers & clips
Matewan (1987) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD 1080p]
Reviewer notes
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Gallery
Details
- TMDB audience
- 7.4/10 (140)
- Age rating
- PG-13
- Status
- Released
- Budget
- $4,000,000
- Box office
- $1,680,358
- IMDb
- tt0093509
