10 Must-Watch Movies and Shows Like Harlan County U.S.A.

10 Must-Watch Movies and Shows Like Harlan County U.S.A. Similar movies

If you were moved by the raw, unflinching portrayal of labor struggles in Harlan County U.S.A. (1977), you'll love these 10 gripping films and shows that capture the same spirit of resilience and social justice. This article explores documentaries and dramas that delve into workers' rights, grassroots activism, and the human cost of corporate greed—perfect for fans of powerful, real-life storytelling.

The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
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The Grapes of Wrath (1940)

Description: A classic film depicting the struggles of displaced farmers during the Great Depression, emphasizing themes of poverty, resilience, and the exploitation of the working class by powerful interests.

Fact: John Ford's adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel won two Academy Awards, including Best Director. The film was controversial at the time for its stark portrayal of social injustice and was banned in some areas.

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The Molly Maguires (1970)
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The Molly Maguires (1970)

Description: A historical drama about labor unrest and violent resistance among Irish-American coal miners in Pennsylvania, showcasing themes of oppression, betrayal, and the fight for workers' rights.

Fact: The film is based on real events from the 1870s and was shot on location in Eckley, Pennsylvania, a preserved coal-mining town. It was one of the first major Hollywood films to depict labor struggles sympathetically.

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Blue Collar (1978)
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Blue Collar (1978)

Description: A gritty drama about auto workers who conspire to rob their union, revealing corruption and the systemic exploitation of laborers by both management and union officials.

Fact: This was the directorial debut of Paul Schrader, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The production was notoriously difficult, with conflicts between the lead actors and the director.

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The Wobblies (1979)
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The Wobblies (1979)

Description: A documentary that chronicles the rise and fall of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), showcasing their radical approach to labor organizing and their battles against corporate and government repression.

Fact: The film features rare archival footage and interviews with surviving members of the IWW, providing a firsthand account of the labor movement's early days. It was restored and re-released in

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The Killing Floor (1984)
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The Killing Floor (1984)

Description: A historical drama about the formation of labor unions in the early 20th century, focusing on racial tensions and solidarity among meatpacking workers in Chicago.

Fact: The film was part of PBS's American Playhouse series and was praised for its authentic depiction of labor history. It was based on extensive research and interviews with actual union organizers.

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Roger & Me (1989)
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Roger & Me (1989)

Description: A documentary that explores the devastating impact of corporate decisions on working-class communities, highlighting economic inequality and the human cost of industrial decline.

Fact: This was Michael Moore's debut feature film, and it was shot on a shoestring budget. The title refers to Moore's repeated attempts to interview General Motors CEO Roger Smith about plant closures in Flint, Michigan.

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The Corporation (2003)
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The Corporation (2003)

Description: An incisive documentary that examines the role of corporations in society, critiquing their power and influence over labor, politics, and the environment.

Fact: The film uses a psychological diagnosis framework to argue that corporations exhibit traits of psychopathy. It won numerous awards, including the Sundance Film Festival's Audience Award for Best Documentary.

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North Country (2005)
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North Country (2005)

Description: A powerful narrative about gender discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace, centered around a woman's fight for justice in a male-dominated mining industry.

Fact: The film is inspired by the first major successful sexual harassment case in the U.S., Lois Jenson v. Eveleth Taconite Co. Charlize Theron underwent a physical transformation for her role, including gaining weight and wearing minimal makeup.

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Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)
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Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)

Description: A provocative documentary that critiques the financial crisis and corporate greed, highlighting the impact of economic policies on ordinary workers and families.

Fact: Michael Moore's film includes footage of him attempting to make a citizen's arrest of Wall Street executives. It was released during the height of the 2008 financial crisis, adding to its relevance and impact.

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Harlan County War (2000)
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Harlan County War (2000)

Description: A gripping portrayal of labor struggles and unionization efforts, focusing on the hardships faced by coal miners and their families, with a strong emphasis on community solidarity and resistance against corporate exploitation.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life Brookside Strike of 1973 in Harlan County, Kentucky, and features actual footage from the events. It was originally made for television but gained critical acclaim for its raw and unflinching depiction of labor conflicts.

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