Joe Hill (1971)
Bo Widerberg's acclaimed portrait of a Swedish immigrant who became America's most celebrated labor troubadour and IWW martyr.
Joe Hill - Movie Information
- Original Title: Joe Hill
- Release Year: 1971
- Directed by: Bo Widerberg
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 1h 58m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, Italian, Swedish
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 25, 1971 (Sweden), October 24, 1971 (United States - NR)
- Alternative Titles: The Ballad of Joe Hill (UK)
- Production Companies: Paramount Pictures, Sagittarius Productions, Bo Widerberg Film
- Production Countries: Sweden, United States of America
Joe Hill - Plot
In the early 20th-century, the legendary Joe Hill emigrates with his brother to the United States. However, after a short time, he loses touch with his brother. After a few jobs but struck by all the injustice and tragedy, he becomes active in the forbidden IWW (Industrial Workers of the World), a union for workers without trades. It is forbidden to demonstrate and speak in public but Joe finds a loophole by singing his manifests with the Salvation Army. As his allies grow, so do his enemies.
Where to Watch Joe Hill
Looking for where to watch Joe Hill?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Joe Hill - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Bo Widerberg
Main Cast
- Thommy Berggren
- Anja Schmidt
- Kelvin Malave
- Evert Anderson
- Cathy Smith
- Hasse Persson
- David Moritz
- Richard Weber
- Joel Miller
- Robert Faeder
Writers
- Bo Widerberg
Producers
- Waldemar Bergendahl
- Bo Widerberg
Joe Hill - FAQs
Is Joe Hill (1971) based on a true story?
Yes, Joe Hill is based on the real life of Joel Emmanuel Hägglund, a Swedish-born labor activist and songwriter who emigrated to the United States and became a celebrated organizer for the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) before being executed in Utah in 1915.
Where can you stream Joe Hill (1971)?
Joe Hill (1971) is available to watch on FlixFling, which offers the film via flat-rate subscription, rental, and purchase. It is also available with ads on Mometu. Check JustWatch for the most current streaming options in your region.
What happened to the real Joe Hill?
The real Joe Hill was arrested in Utah in 1914 and convicted of murder in a controversial trial widely seen as politically motivated. Despite international protests and appeals from labor organizations and public figures, he was executed by firing squad on November 19, 1915, becoming a martyr for the labor movement.
Who plays Joe Hill in the 1971 film?
Swedish actor Thommy Berggren portrays Joe Hill in Bo Widerberg's 1971 film. The supporting cast includes Anja Schmidt as Lucia, Kelvin Malave as The Fox, Evert Anderson as Blackie, and Wendy Geier as labor organizer Elizabeth Gurley Flynn.
What is Joe Hill (1971) about?
The film follows Joe Hill, a Swedish immigrant who arrives in early 20th-century America and, after witnessing widespread injustice, joins the IWW labor union. Unable to demonstrate publicly, he turns to song to spread his message, gaining allies and enemies alike as his influence grows.
Did Joe Hill (1971) win any awards?
Yes, Joe Hill won the Jury Prize (Special Jury Prize) at the 1971 Cannes Film Festival, bringing significant international attention to Bo Widerberg's work. The film was also selected as Sweden's entry for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Who directed Joe Hill and what language is it in?
Joe Hill was directed by Swedish filmmaker Bo Widerberg, who also wrote and edited the film. Although a Swedish production, the film is primarily in English, with Italian and Swedish also spoken, reflecting the immigrant communities depicted in the story.
How long is the film Joe Hill (1971)?
Joe Hill has a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes (118 minutes). Directed by Bo Widerberg and released in 1971, the film offers an immersive portrait of the labor movement in early 20th-century America across its nearly two-hour running time.
More About Joe Hill
Explore further details, cast information, and community reviews for Joe Hill on these trusted resources.