10 Must-Watch Documentaries on Mining

Description: This biographical film about country music star Loretta Lynn, who grew up in a coal-mining community, offers a glimpse into the life of miners' families and the cultural significance of mining in Appalachia.

Fact: Sissy Spacek won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Loretta Lynn. The film's title is taken from Lynn's hit song of the same name.

Description: Although not strictly a documentary, this film provides a dramatized yet factual insight into the diamond mining industry in Sierra Leone, highlighting the exploitation and conflict diamonds.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards and led to increased awareness about the issue of conflict diamonds. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Djimon Hounsou.

Description: This documentary follows the lives of miners in South Africa, exploring the harsh working conditions and the socio-economic issues surrounding the mining industry in the post-apartheid era.

Fact: The film was part of the 2006 Tribeca Film Festival, highlighting the often overlooked stories of African miners.

Description: This Oscar-winning documentary captures the 1973 coal miners' strike in Harlan County, Kentucky, highlighting the struggle for better wages and working conditions. It's a poignant look at labor rights and the harsh realities of mining life.

Fact: The film was directed by Barbara Kopple, who spent years documenting the strike. It also features the famous song "Which Side Are You On?" by Florence Reece, which became an anthem for the miners.

Description: A poetic exploration of the coal mining communities in North East England, this film combines archival footage with a haunting score by Jóhann Jóhannsson, reflecting on the decline of the mining industry and its cultural impact.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in black and white, enhancing its nostalgic and somber tone. It premiered at the 2011 Venice Film Festival.

Description: Focused on the environmental impact of mountaintop removal mining in West Virginia, this documentary follows the community's fight against a coal company, showcasing the devastating effects on both nature and human lives.

Fact: The film features Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been an outspoken critic of mountaintop removal mining. It also includes interviews with local residents affected by the mining practices.

Description: This documentary focuses on two young brothers working in the Cerro Rico mines of Bolivia, where they mine silver to support their family, offering a stark look at child labor in mining.

Fact: The film was shot over the course of three years, capturing the daily lives of these children in one of the most dangerous mines in the world.

Description: A three-part documentary series that examines the coal mine wars in West Virginia, detailing the violent conflicts between miners and coal companies over labor rights and unionization.

Fact: The series was produced by the American Experience, known for its in-depth historical documentaries.

Description: This documentary tells the story of a coal miner's daughter who becomes an advocate for miners' rights after her father's death in a mining accident, shedding light on the personal impacts of mining tragedies.

Fact: The film was screened at various film festivals, focusing on the human side of mining disasters.

Description: An exploration of the diamond mining industry in Botswana, this documentary looks at how the discovery of diamonds has transformed the country, for better and worse, through the eyes of locals and industry insiders.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the BBC, providing a comprehensive view of the diamond industry's global impact.