Labor Day is a celebration of the American workforce and the labor movement that has shaped the country’s history. Over the years, Hollywood has produced several films that highlight the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of workers across various industries. Here are five of the most prolific USA Labor Day movies, each offering a unique perspective on the lives of American workers.

1. Norma Rae (1979)

• Director: Martin Ritt  
• Starring: Sally Field, Beau Bridges, Ron Leibman

Plot Summary:

“Norma Rae” tells the story of a Southern textile worker who becomes an unlikely heroine in the fight to unionize her factory. Inspired by a visiting union organizer, Norma Rae Webster (Sally Field) stands up against the oppressive working conditions at her mill, leading her fellow workers in a courageous struggle for better wages and treatment.

Impact: 

“Norma Rae” became a symbol of the labor movement and a powerful portrayal of one woman’s fight for justice. Sally Field’s performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, and the film itself became a cultural touchstone for labor rights, inspiring many to consider the importance of unions in protecting workers.

Notable Scenes:

• The iconic moment when Norma Rae stands on a table holding a “UNION” sign, sparking a pivotal turning point in the workers’ fight.
• The intense confrontation between Norma Rae and the mill’s management, highlighting the personal cost of her activism.
• The final scene where the factory workers vote to unionize, marking a victory for their rights.

2. 9 to 5 (1980)

• Director: Colin Higgins  
• Starring: Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Dabney Coleman

Plot Summary: 

“9 to 5” is a comedic tale about three office workers who team up to get revenge on their tyrannical, sexist boss. The film follows Judy (Jane Fonda), Violet (Lily Tomlin), and Doralee (Dolly Parton) as they fantasize about taking down their boss, Mr. Hart (Dabney Coleman), and eventually get the opportunity to make those fantasies a reality, transforming their workplace into a fairer, more supportive environment.

Impact:  

The film was a box office hit and became a cultural phenomenon, shedding light on workplace sexism and inequality while also delivering laughs. “9 to 5” resonated with many workers, particularly women, who saw their own struggles reflected in the characters’ experiences. The film’s success also inspired a popular TV series and a Broadway musical, further cementing its impact on American culture.

Notable Scenes:

• The hilarious fantasy sequences where each of the women imagines how they would get rid of Mr. Hart.
• The scene where the trio accidentally kidnaps Mr. Hart, leading to a series of comedic events.
• The transformation of the office under the women’s leadership, introducing progressive policies like flexible hours and daycare.

3. On the Waterfront (1954)

• Director: Elia Kazan  
• Starring: Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint, Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb

Plot Summary: 

“On the Waterfront” is a gritty drama about corruption and redemption on the docks of New York City. The film follows Terry Malloy (Marlon Brando), a former boxer who works as a longshoreman and becomes entangled in the corrupt practices of the local union bosses. As Terry begins to realize the extent of the corruption, he struggles with his conscience and ultimately decides to stand up against the powerful figures controlling the docks.

Impact:  

This film is considered one of the greatest in American cinema, largely due to Marlon Brando’s iconic performance. “On the Waterfront” won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Brando. Its themes of corruption, power, and the moral duty to do what’s right continue to resonate, making it a timeless exploration of the struggles faced by workers.

Notable Scenes:

• The famous “I could been a contender” scene, where Terry confronts his brother Charley about the sacrifices he made.
• The intense confrontation between Terry and the union bosses in the docks’ dark alleyways.
• The climactic scene where Terry, beaten and bloodied, walks through the docks in a show of defiance, inspiring his fellow workers to join him.

4. Silkwood (1983)

• Director: Mike Nichols  
• Starring: Meryl Streep, Kurt Russell, Cher

Plot Summary: 

“Silkwood” is based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, a worker at a plutonium processing plant who becomes a whistleblower exposing unsafe working conditions. The film follows Karen (Meryl Streep) as she becomes increasingly aware of the dangers posed by radiation exposure and begins to collect evidence against her employer. Her activism puts her life in danger, leading to a tragic and mysterious ending.

Impact:  

“Silkwood” brought attention to issues of worker safety and corporate negligence, raising awareness about the rights of employees in hazardous industries. Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Karen Silkwood earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination, solidifying the film’s place as a significant work in the genre of social justice cinema.

Notable Scenes:

• The tense and chilling moment when Karen discovers she has been contaminated by radiation, leading to a dramatic decontamination scene.
• Karen’s increasing paranoia as she realizes the lengths her employers will go to silence her.
• The film’s haunting conclusion, where Karen’s car crashes under mysterious circumstances as she heads to meet a journalist with evidence against the company.

5. Matewan (1987)

• Director: John Sayles  
• Starring: Chris Cooper, James Earl Jones, Mary McDonnell, Will Oldham

Plot Summary:  

“Matewan” is a historical drama depicting the coal miners’ strike in 1920 in the small town of Matewan, West Virginia. The film centers on a union organizer (Chris Cooper) who arrives in town to help the miners, who are fighting for better wages and working conditions against the powerful coal company. The tension between the miners, the company’s hired enforcers, and the local law enforcement escalates into a violent confrontation.

Impact:  

“Matewan” is praised for its realistic portrayal of labor struggles and its focus on the solidarity among workers in the face of exploitation. The film’s depiction of the brutal realities of the labor movement in early 20th-century America offers a sobering look at the sacrifices made by workers to gain basic rights. Its historical accuracy and emotional depth have made it an enduring film for those interested in labor history.

Notable Scenes:

• The tense standoff between the miners and the company’s hired gunmen in the town square.
• The poignant moment when a young preacher (Will Oldham) delivers a fiery sermon in support of the miners.
• The climactic shootout that leaves the town and its people forever changed, underscoring the high stakes of the labor struggle.

Conclusion

These five films represent the diverse challenges and triumphs faced by American workers, from union struggles to personal battles for justice and equality. Each movie offers a unique perspective on the labor movement and the sacrifices made by individuals in the fight for fair treatment. As we celebrate Labor Day, these films serve as powerful reminders of the importance of workers’ rights and the enduring spirit of the American workforce.