The former coal mining communities in North East England form the subject of this elegant artists' film by American artist Bill Morrison. Their story is told entirely without words, yet the film is far from silent: it features a remarkable original score by Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson.

The Plot:
Focusing on the Durham coalfield, yet portraying a story of universal themes, The Miners’ Hymns depicts the hardship of pit work, increasing mechanisation, the role of trade unions in organising and fighting for workers’ rights, and the renowned annual Durham Miners’ Gala

Using rarely-seen footage from the British Film Institute, the BBC, and other archives, THE MINERS' HYMNS celebrates social, cultural, and political aspects of the extinct industry. Focusing on the Durham coalfield located in northeastern England, it depicts the hardship of pit work, the role of Trade Unions in organizing and fighting for workers' rights, the years of increased mechanization and the annual Miners' Gala in Durham.