When “Mine 9” plays during April at the Phoenix Drive-In in Houston, one of the lead characters will be played by former Texas County resident Clint James.
Mine 9 is about a group of nine men trapped deep underground in a West Virginia coal mine after a methane explosion leaves them with enough oxygen to last an hour. James plays one of the miners, and considers the role a highlight of his career that includes numerous appearances on the silver screen and TV.
“I feel that it will be some of my best work yet, working with a strong cast,” he said. “It was one of the hardest shoots I’ve done physically because of the 4-foot ceilings. I can now understand how physically – as well as mentally – demanding it is to work the mines. I have great respect for coal miners.”
James was raised in the Licking area, and lived near the Big M Resort at Boiling Springs that was owned and operated by his uncle, Maurice Murray. He went on to attend middle school and high school in Springfield, and ultimately graduated from Houston High School in 1993. James then joined the U.S. Air Force, becoming a communications specialist and serving for almost nine years. When he left the military, he moved to Tucson, Ariz., and started acting in theater and small-time “indie” films before moving to Los Angeles. It was in L.A. where he hooked up with his first agent.
Before embarking on a career in show business, Clint James lived in Texas County for 13 years.
James said there is little similarity between what he thought acting would be like as a youngster and what it’s actually like.
“The reality of being an actor is a lot different than what I had expected early on,” he said. “It’s a lot harder to get your foot in the door. There’s a lot of sacrifice involved, especially when it comes to family life. You have to go where the work is, and unfortunately that means moving around a lot.”
James’ assistants are integral in landing him roles.
“My agent and manager both submit me for projects in television and film,” he said. “I’m always grateful to take whatever opportunities arise.”
What’s the best part of being an actor?
“For myself, it’s diving into a new role,” James said. “Seeing that character come to life on set and being a part of the overall creative process of movie making is what drives me.”
James said his memories of going to the Phoenix Theater include his first trip there in 1986 to see “Platoon” (which won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture). He said Mine 9 does a worthy job of taking people on a journey depicting the hardships, corruption and potential dangers associated with coal mining.
“Mine 9 is based on actual events, which alone is fascinating,” he said. “Through outstanding film production, the audience will be able to experience the reality of what these men went through.
“A huge thank you to all my friends and family in Texas County and to the Phoenix Theater for playing Mine 9.”
Phoenix Theater and Drive-In co-owner Jennifer Shelton said Mine 9 will be shown at the drive-in on Friday and Saturday, April 19 and 20, with an 8 p.m. start time both nights. She said the movie might also be shown on other dates to follow.