Roger & Me (1989) Watch Online Free
A documentary about the closure of General Motors’ plant at Flint, Michigan, which resulted in the loss of 30, 000 jobs. Details the attempts of filmmaker Michael Moore to get an interview with GM CEO Roger Smith.
Roger & Me is a 1989 documentary directed by Michael Moore, which chronicles the devastating impact of General Motors’ (GM) decision to close its factories in Flint, Michigan, leading to the loss of 30, 000 jobs. Moore, a native of Flint, returns to his hometown to investigate the consequences of these closures and to confront GM’s CEO, Roger B. Smith.
The film begins with Moore reflecting on his upbringing in Flint, a city once thriving due to GM’s presence. He highlights the prosperity of the 1950s, where GM’s success translated into economic stability for the community. However, by the mid-1980s, GM announced the closure of several plants in Flint, opting to relocate production to Mexico where labor was cheaper. This decision plunged Flint into economic despair, leading to widespread unemployment, increased crime rates, and a deteriorating quality of life.
Moore embarks on a quest to interview Roger B. Smith, aiming to understand the rationale behind the plant closures and to showcase the human cost of corporate decisions. His attempts to meet Smith are thwarted by security measures and evasive tactics. In the meantime, Moore documents the struggles of Flint’s residents, including former GM workers, who are forced to adapt to new realities, such as selling rabbits for meat or joining multi-level marketing schemes. The film also critiques the city’s efforts to revitalize itself through tourism, highlighting the failure of initiatives like AutoWorld, an indoor theme park that closed shortly after opening.
Through a combination of humor, satire, and poignant interviews, Moore paints a vivid picture of the economic and social upheaval experienced by Flint’s residents. The film culminates with Moore’s confrontation with Smith during a GM shareholder meeting, where he is denied the opportunity to speak, symbolizing the corporate indifference to the plight of the workers.
Roger & Me received critical acclaim for its bold approach to documentary filmmaking and its unflinching portrayal of corporate malfeasance. The film holds a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 8.1/10. The consensus states, Michael Moore’s debut documentary is a scathing, humorous, and deeply personal look at the devastating effects of corporate greed on a working-class community. On Metacritic, it has a score of 79 out of 100, indicating universal acclaim. Critics praised Moore’s investigative journalism and storytelling, noting the film’s ability to blend humor with serious social commentary. Roger & Me is often cited as a pioneering work in documentary cinema, influencing subsequent films that tackle social and political issues.
After watching Roger & Me, you may experience a range of emotions, including empathy, frustration, and a sense of urgency. The film’s candid portrayal of Flint’s decline and the human stories behind the statistics can evoke deep empathy for the residents affected by corporate decisions. The stark depiction of economic hardship and social inequality may lead to frustration with systemic issues and a desire for change. Additionally, the film’s call to action may inspire a sense of urgency to address social and economic injustices in your own community. Overall, Roger & Me serves as a powerful reminder of the real-world consequences of corporate actions and the resilience of individuals facing adversity.
