Western Deep (2002)

Western Deep (2002) poster

An exploration of the sensory experience of the TauTona gold mine in South Africa, showing migrant labourers working in dark, claustrophobic environments and the ear-splitting noise of drilling. The TauTona mine in South Africa, known as 'Western Deep' is the world's deepest gold mine. Employing more than 5,000 people, it operates twenty-four hours day. The film begins in complete darkness as the miners descend three-and-a-half kilometres underground. McQueen documents an intense work regime where the temperature can reach over ninety degrees celsius. Accompanied by jarring sounds created by the mechanical equipment, Western Deep is a hellish representation of labour that makes the silent resolve of the miners all the more powerful.

Director: Steve McQueen
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 24 min
Release Date:
Cinematography: Sean Bobbitt
Country: United Kingdom
Language: No Language
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Steve McQueen
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Western Deep about?
An exploration of the sensory experience of the TauTona gold mine in South Africa, showing migrant labourers working in dark, claustrophobic environments and the ear-splitting noise of drilling. The TauTona mine in South Africa, known as 'Western Deep' is the world's deepest gold mine. Employing more than 5,000 people, it operates twenty-four hours day. The film begins in complete darkness as the miners descend three-and-a-half kilometres underground. McQueen documents an intense work regime where the temperature can reach over ninety degrees celsius. Accompanied by jarring sounds created by the mechanical equipment, Western Deep is a hellish representation of labour that makes the silent resolve of the miners all the more powerful.
Who directed Western Deep?
Western Deep was directed by Steve McQueen.
How long is Western Deep?
Western Deep has a runtime of 24m (24 minutes).
What genre is Western Deep?
Western Deep is a Documentary film.
Where was Western Deep produced?
Western Deep was produced in United Kingdom.