Devil Put the Coal in the Ground

About This Movie

Devil Put the Coal in the Ground takes a raw, unfiltered look at life in West Virginia, told through the voices of those who’ve lived the coal industry’s rise and fall. It’s not just a documentary; it’s an emotional journey, really. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the weight of personal stories to settle in, making the viewer reflect on loss and resilience. You feel the heaviness in the atmosphere, shaped by the stark realities these folks face—economic collapse, addiction. The interviews are hauntingly intimate, revealing painful truths about community and survival. The visuals, grounded and often bleak, juxtapose the beauty of the landscape with the devastation wrought by industry. It’s a distinctive exploration of place and identity, not shying away from the hard truths.

Focuses on personal storytelling from native West Virginians.Examines both economic decline and personal struggles.Highlights the atmospheric and emotional weight of the narrative.