Big Picture Big Sound

Capitalism: A Love Story Review

By David Kempler

Moore Wants Less Capitalism

Capitalism_-_A_Love_Story.jpg
Michael Moore is back and he's still pissed off. Is anyone reading this the least bit surprised? What we have come to expect from Moore is what we always get: anger, indignation, self-importance, cleverness, the usual targets, arrogance, earnestness and so on. Those of us that enjoy his work will once again derive great pleasure and smugness from his "Capitalism: A Love Story".

In the past, Moore chose to focus on aspects of American life and what he didn't like about it. Here he expands the target all the way to the idea and implementation of capitalism in today's America and how, in his opinion, it has failed and that more far worse news is just around the corner unless we change our ways. With his by now color-by-the-numbers-approach of blending new footage, funny, dated promotional materials, interviews, guerilla journalism and in your face tactics, Moore presents the case that we are adrift. The reason we are adrift is because, in his view, corporations have taken control of all facets of our country and the result is that democracy and the good of the average Joe have been relegated to the landfill.

If you agreed with him before you see the film, you will agree with him afterwards. The reverse also holds true. No shocking news there. From a strictly cinematic point of view there is nothing at all new here. There is convincing content to back up his allegations, though. Then again, I already believe what he is saying and am a member of the "Church of Moore". Those in the opposing camp would like to see this particular church burned to the ground, figuratively, not literally. I hope.

Moore supporters might add up to a star to my review. Moore denouncers should consider this a zero-star outing. There is no middle ground when it comes to Moore just like there is no more middle ground in American politics.

What did you think?

Movie title Capitalism: A Love Story
Release year 2009
MPAA Rating R
Our rating
Summary Michael Moore is up to his old tricks and whether you like his latest will depend solely on your politics.
View all articles by David Kempler
More in Movies
Big News
Newsletter Sign-up
 
Connect with Us