Michael Redgrave’s success feels earned when he secures a scholarship for teacher training at university. However, his plans are disrupted by his affection for Jenny (Margaret Lockwood), who demonstrates self-serving tendencies. He abandons his education and goes back to his hometown with her, hoping to make things better for the people there; but soon finds himself disappointed. His wife still seems interested in Joe (Emlyn Williams), an acquaintance from the past, and his aging father appears destined to continue working in the mines. A chance discovery reveals that the mine is hazardous, prompting him to try and alert the local council so they can prevent a catastrophe – though it’s uncertain if they will take notice. Director Carol Reed gives this narrative ample space to unfold. It isn't overly intricate, but we witness the characters evolve as events appear inexorably headed toward calamity in an engaging way. Redgrave, Williams, and Allan Jeayes, playing mine owner Barras, collaborate effectively on a well-constructed, if somewhat understated, account of avarice and mistreatment, enhanced by strikingly intense visuals depicting mining conditions that lend it a sense of realism.

Source on TMDB