‘The Old Oak’ Trailer: Acclaimed Filmmaker Ken Loach Returns With A Tale Of A Small Town Welcoming Refugees

Over 50 years since the debut of his first feature film, 1967’s “Poor Cow,” acclaimed filmmaker Ken Loach continues to add to his incredible filmography. And his next film is “The Old Oak,” which continues what Loach does best—telling humanist stories about the struggles that complicate the lives of people. 

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As seen in the trailer for “The Old Oak,” the film tells the story of a once-thriving mining community that is struggling to stay afloat. And the members of the small town begin to feel threatened when Syrian refugees begin to arrive. However, the man who runs the local pub decides to take it upon himself to repair the community and help bring encourage solidarity amongst the people. 

The film stars Dave Turner and Ebla Mari. And as mentioned, the film is directed by Loach, who once again worked with writer Paul Laverty to bring the story to life. “The Old Oak” had its debut at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where it earned mostly positive reviews. 

“The Old Oak” will debut in UK and Irish cinemas on September 29. You can watch the trailer below.

Here’s the synopsis:

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.