"Mineville" film screened before "Switchback" release

Lohr McKinstry, The Press-Republican, Plattsburgh, N.Y.
Updated ·2 min read

May 23—MORIAH — The independent film "Mineville" about the town's iron mines will get a special screening on Sunday, June 2 at Moriah Central School.

The 2 p.m. screening in the auditorium is open to all and admission will be charged.

Emmy award-winning actor William Sadler is in "Mineville" (2010) and will be there for the screening and participate in a question-and-answer session afterward.

The movie's companion piece, "Switchback," is in the editing stage now and expected to be released later this year. Both were written and directed by Lori Bailey, whose family worked in Moriah's iron mines before they closed in 1971.

'A RICH HISTORY'

Both films were shot on location in the town of Moriah, although some of the mining scenes in "Switchback" were shot in a Pennsylvania mine now used as a tourist attraction.

Sadler's film credits include "The Shawshank Redemption," "The Green Mile," "Silent but Deadly," and "Demon Knights."

"I love the story of 'Mineville' and I loved filming it in Moriah." Sadler said in a release "A great community with a such a rich history."

Based on actual events, "Mineville" is a dramatic period piece set at the turn of the 20th century.

"This story will look at the rise and fall of the iron ore mining industry in New York state," Bailey said. "We will follow the lives of several Irish and Italian immigrant families and their struggles to survive the hardships of this dangerous and unregulated industry. Our story will often revolve around the handsome, charismatic Michael O'Roarke and his pursuit for equality, justice, and safer working conditions for all immigrant workers."

The story of "Mineville" is based on the lives of Bailey's family members that immigrated here to America and worked in the Iron-ore mines of upstate New York.

"My father worked in the mines," she said. "His carbide lamp cut weakly through the impenetrable darkness. Owned by the company and controlled by fear, he was driven to provide for his family. This is the story of his life."

Proceeds from the showing will benefit youth groups at Moriah Central School. Tickets are $15 if purchased in advance through Moriah Central School, and $20 at the door the day of the show.