A rock band’s dreams clash with family and tradition during Britain’s 1984 miners' strike in this gritty British drama.
Story of Dreams, Sacrifice, and the Harsh Realities of Working-Class Britain
A new indie film set against one of Britain’s most tumultuous eras, 'THE MINER'S SON,' directed by Juliette Short, takes viewers deep into the lives of a Kent mining community during the explosive miners' strike of 1984. Blending gritty realism with dark comedy, the film delivers a heartfelt look at how the aspirations of a young rock band clash with the harsh realities of working-class life in Thatcher-era Britain. Based on real events and stories from the period, 'THE MINER'S SON' explores themes of friendship, love, and the enduring bonds of community.
The film centers around Clay, a passionate guitarist determined to follow his dream of making it big in music, despite his father’s wish for him to pursue a stable career in mining. Alongside Clay is Davey, a charismatic vocalist who juggles band life with supporting his recently widowed father. Together with Ravvi and Vim, they form the band Black Diamond, eager to escape their small-town struggles and achieve stardom. Their journey takes a twist when they cross paths with a rogue music producer with a dark secret, pushing the young musicians into an unexpected world of deception and moral compromise.
The cast includes, David Easter as Clay's father, Will, and Callum Chapman as Davey, whose characters provide a compelling look at generational divides and the tug-of-war between tradition and ambition. The storyline is inspired by the experiences of co-writer and producer Kevin Short, himself a miner's son with a passion for music who grew up in a Kent mining community during the 1980s. The personal connection brings authenticity to the film’s depiction of the challenges and camaraderie of working-class life.
Shot across Kent and Wales, 'THE MINER'S SON' captures the essence of the time and place with carefully selected locations such as Deal, Sandwich, and Margate. Even the film’s soundtrack is period-authentic, featuring original music produced by Ettecon Productions, which aims to release the album on eco-friendly bio-plastic records.
Juliette Short, the film's director, brings her Midlands working-class roots to the screen, creating a story that resonates with audiences familiar with Britain’s industrial legacy. Her direction is complemented by Joe Potts’ cinematography and Billy McGarry’s immersive drone shots, adding a raw, cinematic edge to the film.
With 'THE MINER'S SON,' indie cinema fans are treated to a multi-layered story that is as much about rock music as it is about the complexities of family, community, and loyalty. The film promises to spark conversation around the struggles of the era, which many say still echo today.
'THE MINER'S SON' will start with a limited independent cinema run, followed by a DVD release and availability on VOD platforms in the new year.
