Moore's 'Capitalism' as info-tainment
Kelly Ho, Catherine Martin
Issue date: 11/5/09 Section: Arts
Kelly:
Even though the current financial crisis is indeed a serious problem, many people are unable to explain its details very well. Before watching Capitalism: A Love Story, I was definitely among those who could not articulate exactly what had happened to the economy.
I entered the theater and was slightly worried that I would not be able to understand the material of the film. However, Michael Moore educated me in a way that was not at all condescending. He explains everything, even what he sees as the fundamental problems of our government, very well.
The underlying message of the film is that every American has the right to contribute to how the country is run.
Moore first explains the economy and all its wonders using layman's terms and current examples of the poor and middle class.
This method successfully displays the problems of those who are suffering. Furthermore, even those less afflicted by the economic crisis will be moved by the courage of those who are struggling and will better understand why people are so angry with the situation.
However, some people will be turned off by the overly biased stance of the film. It was great to see so many Democrats fired up about the situation, but what about the Republicans? Surely not all of them are for stomping on the poor?
Also, it was a little disappointing that only those who agreed with Moore have their whole interviews displayed in the movie. Those who disagreed have clips shown, but they are mostly portrayed in a way that makes them look stupid. A more balanced representation of economic views would have been appreciated.
Moore is definitely a smart director and filmmaker though. If anything, watch this film to educate yourself. The humor and the real-life stories that Moore uses make the learning process much more enjoyable.
Catherine:
Capitalism: A Love Story was my first experience with Michael Moore, and I have to say that I was impressed.
Even though the current financial crisis is indeed a serious problem, many people are unable to explain its details very well. Before watching Capitalism: A Love Story, I was definitely among those who could not articulate exactly what had happened to the economy.
I entered the theater and was slightly worried that I would not be able to understand the material of the film. However, Michael Moore educated me in a way that was not at all condescending. He explains everything, even what he sees as the fundamental problems of our government, very well.
The underlying message of the film is that every American has the right to contribute to how the country is run.
Moore first explains the economy and all its wonders using layman's terms and current examples of the poor and middle class.
This method successfully displays the problems of those who are suffering. Furthermore, even those less afflicted by the economic crisis will be moved by the courage of those who are struggling and will better understand why people are so angry with the situation.
However, some people will be turned off by the overly biased stance of the film. It was great to see so many Democrats fired up about the situation, but what about the Republicans? Surely not all of them are for stomping on the poor?
Also, it was a little disappointing that only those who agreed with Moore have their whole interviews displayed in the movie. Those who disagreed have clips shown, but they are mostly portrayed in a way that makes them look stupid. A more balanced representation of economic views would have been appreciated.
Moore is definitely a smart director and filmmaker though. If anything, watch this film to educate yourself. The humor and the real-life stories that Moore uses make the learning process much more enjoyable.
Catherine:
Capitalism: A Love Story was my first experience with Michael Moore, and I have to say that I was impressed.

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