Roger & Me

Definition

Roger & Me is a groundbreaking documentary film released in 1989, directed by Michael Moore, that explores the social and economic impact of General Motors' decision to close its factories in Flint, Michigan. The film blends personal narrative with investigative journalism, showcasing the struggles of the workers and residents affected by corporate decisions while also critiquing capitalism and American consumer culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Roger & Me is often credited with helping to popularize the documentary genre as a means of social critique and activism.
2. The film features Moore's personal journey as he attempts to confront GM's CEO, Roger Smith, in an effort to highlight the devastation caused by factory closures.
3. Moore uses humor and irony throughout the film to engage viewers while addressing serious social issues such as unemployment and poverty.
4. Roger & Me was controversial upon release for its unconventional approach, which combined elements of comedy with hard-hitting socio-economic commentary.
5. The film sparked discussions about corporate ethics and the responsibilities of large companies toward their workers and communities.

Review Questions

• How does Roger & Me utilize personal narrative to convey its message about corporate decisions and their impact on individuals?
  • Roger & Me uses Michael Moore's personal experiences growing up in Flint, Michigan, to illustrate the broader consequences of General Motors' factory closures. By focusing on the stories of individuals who lost their jobs and faced economic hardship, Moore humanizes the impact of corporate decisions. This narrative approach allows viewers to connect emotionally with the struggles of Flint's residents, making the critique of capitalism more relatable and powerful.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of humor in Roger & Me as a tool for social commentary on economic issues in America.
  • The use of humor in Roger & Me serves as an effective tool for social commentary by making serious economic issues more accessible and engaging for viewers. Moore employs irony and satire to highlight the absurdities of corporate culture and the consequences of economic policies. This blend of humor with poignant storytelling not only entertains but also provokes critical thought about the societal impacts of corporate decisions, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own views regarding capitalism.
• Analyze how Roger & Me reflects the broader trends in documentary filmmaking during the late 20th century and its influence on contemporary social activism.
  • Roger & Me represents a shift in documentary filmmaking during the late 20th century toward a more personal and subjective style that seeks to engage audiences emotionally while addressing important social issues. The film's success paved the way for future documentaries that blend personal narratives with investigative journalism, encouraging filmmakers to adopt similar approaches in exploring themes like corporate accountability and social justice. Its impact is seen in contemporary social activism, where filmmakers continue to use documentaries as powerful tools for raising awareness and inspiring change on various issues facing society today.

Related terms

Documentary: A non-fiction film that presents factual information about real events, people, or issues, often incorporating interviews and archival footage.

Cinematic Activism: The use of film as a means to promote social change or raise awareness about political issues, often encouraging audience engagement and action.

Corporate Accountability: The responsibility of corporations to act ethically and transparently regarding their impact on society and the environment, including the consequences of their business practices.