The Old Oak is a special place. Not only is it the last pub standing, but it’s also the only remaining public space where people can meet in a once thriving mining community that has now fallen on hard times after 30 years of decline. TJ Ballantyne (Dave Turner), 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, Yara (Ebla Mari), with her camera. Can they find a way for the two communities to understand each other? So unfolds a deeply moving drama about their fragilities and hopes.
Director Ken Loach
Screenplay Paul Laverty
Producer Rebecca O’Brien
Cast Dave Turner, Ebla Mari
Sales agent Wild Bunch
UK distributor Studiocanal
North American distributor Zeitgeist
Broadcaster BBC
Credits summary A Sixteen Films and Why Not production, supported by BFI and BBC Film, in co-production with Les Films du Fleuve
Festival highlights The Cannes Film Festival, The Locarno Film Festival