This is one of my recent DVD purchases . . . and a good one. The story is based on true events involving Irish coal miners working in Pennsylvania in the 1800s. The Molly Maguires were a secret society of miners who sabotaged mines and railway cars full of coal as a means of battling the oppressive mining companies. Sean Connery plays the leader of the Maguires. Anthony Zerbe is one of the members. Richard Harris plays a detective who infiltrates the group. An interesting slice of history, and a very enjoyable movie.
I though this was a very well made film also. Kind of slow paced, but the acting and plot is top notch, and a lot more involving than modern films. Martin Ritt was a great director, thanks for reminding me about this film Burgo.
Personally, I prefer the drop kick murphys.