Westray (2001)

Westray (2001) poster

In this feature documentary, filmmaker Paul Cowan offers an innovative, moving account of the Westray coal mine disaster that killed 26 men in Nova Scotia on May 9, 1992. The film focuses on the lives of three widows and three miners lucky enough not to be underground that day when the methane and coal dust ignited. But their lives were torn apart by the events. Meet some of the working men, who felt they had no option but to stay on at Westray. And wives, who heard the rumours, saw their men sometimes bloodied from accidents and stood by them, hoping it would all turn out all right. This is a film about working people everywhere whose lives are often entrusted to companies that violate the most fundamental rules of safety and decency in the name of profit.

Director: Paul Cowan
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 80 min
Release Date:

Cast

Screenplay

Production: ONF | NFB
Country: Canada
Language: English
Original Language: ab

Keywords

mining, nova scotia, canada

More Films by Director: Paul Cowan
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Westray about?
In this feature documentary, filmmaker Paul Cowan offers an innovative, moving account of the Westray coal mine disaster that killed 26 men in Nova Scotia on May 9, 1992. The film focuses on the lives of three widows and three miners lucky enough not to be underground that day when the methane and coal dust ignited. But their lives were torn apart by the events. Meet some of the working men, who felt they had no option but to stay on at Westray. And wives, who heard the rumours, saw their men sometimes bloodied from accidents and stood by them, hoping it would all turn out all right. This is a film about working people everywhere whose lives are often entrusted to companies that violate the most fundamental rules of safety and decency in the name of profit.
Who directed Westray?
Westray was directed by Paul Cowan.
Who stars in Westray?
Westray stars Michael Jones, Katie Malloch.
How long is Westray?
Westray has a runtime of 1h 20m (80 minutes).
What genre is Westray?
Westray is a Documentary film.
Where was Westray produced?
Westray was produced in Canada.