"Perhaps, then, THE OLD OAK isn’t that “one last great thing”. But it is a testament to a director who has never abandoned his beliefs." - Clarisse Loughrey, Independent (UK)

"Loach’s faith in the human capacity for empathy prevails in the end. Best of all, he brings off this optimistic flourish without the taint of sentimentality." - Sandra Hall, Sydney Morning Herald

"I hope that this isn’t Loach’s final film, but if it is, he has concluded with a ringing statement of faith in compassion for the oppressed." - Peter Bradshaw, Guardian

Opens April 19 | In a once-thriving mining village in England, the Old Oak is the last pub standing, a symbol of the “good old days,” and serving as a place for the downtrodden citizens to gather. When a group of Syrian refugees moves into town, they are met with prejudices and distrust, but when an unexpected friendship forms between Old Oak proprietor TJ and refugee Yara, so too blooms compassion and understanding between the townspeople and their new neighbors. An unwaveringly humanistic filmmaker, two-time Palme d’Or winner Ken Loach (THE WIND THE SHAKES THE BARLEY; I, DANIEL BLAKE), now 87, has announced THE OLD OAK—perhaps his most empathetic and hopeful film—will be his last. Film Center exclusive. 


Awards & Nominations

Nominee - Palme d'Or, Cannes Film Festival
Winner - Audience Award, Ghent International Film Festival
Winner - Audience Award, Locarno International Film Festival
Winner - Audience Award, Valladolid International Film Festival


The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu