A fictionalised account of the first successful sexual harassment case in the United States. When Josey Aimes (Academy Award winner Charlize Theron) returns to her hometown in Northern Minnesota after a failed marriage, she needs a good job. A single mother with two children to support, she turns to the predominant source of employment in the region - the iron mines. It's an industry long dominated by men, in a place unaccustomed to change. She is prepared for the back-breaking and often dangerous work, but coping with the harassment she and the other female miners encounter from their male co-workers proves far more challenging.
Directed by
Niki Caro
Written by
Michael Seitzman (screenplay); Clara Bingham; Laura Leedy.
Starring
Charlize Theron (Josey Aimes); Elle Peterson (Karen Aimes); Thomas Curtis (Sammy Aimes); Frances McDormand (Glory); Sean Bean (Kyle); Woody Harrelson (Bill White); Jeremy Renner (Bobby Sharp); Richard Jenkins (Hank Aimes); Sissy Spacek (Alice Aimes); James Cada (Don Pearson); Rusty Schwimmer (Big Betty); Linda Emond (Leslie Conlin); Michelle Monaghan (Sherry); Brad William Henke (Lattavansky); Jillian Armenante (Peg). Please contact SFC to add other cast members and characters.
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The Reality of the Evils Many Face - Just Going to Work
Mark Banks (United Kingdom)
Opinion: Recommended
It should be known that this is a 'gritty' drama in many senses; not only of the colourful language used and the depiction of the harassment - and beyond - that many women face in life, but also of the bleak setting up in 'The North Country'. This is not a film for children. However, what emerges from this drama is a story of inspiration, courage, a determination to see justice done and the truth prevail, and a testimony to the sanctity of life; no matter how bad things are or have been. The all-star leading cast turn in quality performances worthy of their standing in Hollywood, and though the script does feel a little slow in parts, this is one film I'd recommend most adults watch; if not least to appreciate that for most of us at least, life could be a lot harder in the shoes of others. I thank the USCCB for choosing this in their annual Top-10.
