Review of Roger & Me (1989) by Jeffrey L — 25 Jul 2010

The documentary which kicked off Michael Mooreâ??s successful career as a filmmaker, Roger and Me (filmed in 1989) gives us all a glimpse of poverty (primarily in Michigan) and the toll it has taken on all who reside there as well as those who lose their jobs and canâ??t support themselves or their families. This ultimately has a domino effect and the entire community (metaphorically as well as physically) falls apart. Though depressing most of the time, this one provides much insight on how bad some situations can be during an economic crisis.

Moore captures many good points early on and interviews many victims who live paycheck to paycheck and have even been evicted from their homes (one unfortunate family was evicted on Christmas Eve!). Others scrounge around for other means of income. But of course, if nobody has income to begin with, how can there be customers? Moore also includes some background info on efforts some citizens have taken to attract tourists (most notably a luxurious hotel). Yet, things just seem to go from bad to worse most of the time.

The primary focus is Mooreâ??s ordeal getting a hold of CEO Roger Smith who could choose to improve this situation by donating some profits, yet keeps it all. Moore emphasizes this a great deal as he shows footage of him trying to reach him by phone, letter and physically going to his office. Yet, the guy just wonâ??t respond and his office is guarded by security so much, itâ??s nearly impossible. This may make a very valid point on how upper society looks down upon other forces, which is one of the biggest factors in social problems. Like many of Mooreâ??s films, he uses pathos and often focuses on gloom and doom, depending on the subject. Yet, those who enjoy his thoughtful perspectives will surely not complain about this one.