“The Old Oak” is the story of a village in the Northeast of England, where the mine closed, and people feel deserted by the system. Many young ones have left and what was once a thriving, proud community struggles to keep old values alive. But there is growing anger, resentment, and a lack of hope. Houses are cheap and available. This makes it an ideal location for the Syrian refugees that have been accepted by Britain in recent years. How will the Syrians be received? And what will be the future of the last remaining pub in the village, The Old Oak?

Ken Loach’ warmly humorous “The Old Oak” premiered in the main competition of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.