The Old Oak ★★★★

In “The Old Oak,” a cinematic masterpiece helmed by the venerable Ken Loach, the narrative unfolds as a poignant social-realist drama within the confines of a declining northern English mining town in 2016. In this cinematic gem, Loach deftly navigates the intricacies of societal upheaval when a wave of Syrian refugees becomes a catalyst for both unity and discord among the residents. Dave Turner’s portrayal of TJ Ballantyne serves as a compelling lens through which Loach delves into the multifaceted emotions, presenting a rich tapestry of compassion, resistance, and the nuanced complexities of community dynamics in the face of profound change.

Crafted from a screenplay by Loach’s longtime collaborator Paul Laverty, the film weaves a touching and rough-edged portrait of working-class individuals grappling with the relentless challenges of an unyielding world. The narrative revolves around TJ, an aging, financially burdened proprietor of the titular pub, caught in the crossfire of differing opinions within his community regarding the newly arrived refugees. The film not only captures the palpable tensions surrounding the refugees but also delves into the moral quandaries faced by a man who, despite his community’s resistance, engages in volunteer work for the local aid agency as a delivery driver.

“The Old Oak” ingeniously explores the dichotomy between those who perceive the refugees as innocent seekers of a new life and those who view them as opportunistic interlopers, bringing stress and cultural dissonance to a town already grappling with its decline. The film artfully addresses the complexities of this clash through TJ’s unlikely friendship with Yara, portrayed with nuance by Ebla Mari, a spirited young Syrian girl drawn to the town’s history depicted in photographs lining the pub’s disused room.

As TJ and Yara embark on the endeavor to revitalize this forgotten space into an open kitchen, offering free food and fostering communal gatherings, the film becomes a poignant allegory for bridging divides and finding common ground. However, the room itself becomes a source of contention, revealing the stark contrast between TJ’s altruistic intentions and the resistance from those who seek to mobilize against the refugees.

The film, potentially Loach’s final work at 87, showcases his commitment to human stories over political messages. Through the character TJ, it explores the complexities of community reactions to change, offering a timeless portrayal of the working class and human rights. Loach’s cinematic legacy endures in these deeply human narratives that go beyond political divides.