ViewGuide

Created Feb 22, 2011 11:26AM PST • Edited Feb 22, 2011 11:28AM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   Good 3.0

   Another Michael Moore documentary, this time pointing out the failings of the current economic climate, and decrying them as a byproduct of capitalism. Moore approaches this issue much like a prizefighter who jabs at a bigger opponent, but does not offer a substantial punch, in my opinion, to knock it out.

   Moore is very adept at producing easily digestible documentaries, that skip from one vignette to another without allowing the discussion or action to fully register. In some cases, the vignette has nothing to do with the greater topic at hand, but merely serves as the cinematic equivalent of hamburger helper. Such is the case when he decides to “revisit” the GM headquarters, site of his first film "Roger and Me.” Should we really be surprised when they and other businesses don’t let him and his film crew in? Ask yourself, if he showed up at YOUR business, would YOU let him in?

   In the meantime, he does offer some disgusting stories of greed, and tries to convince the viewer of its evils. Kind of ironic coming from a man, who has made millions and millions of dollars, yet is willing to play the role of David, to the financial world’s Goliath.

   Nevertheless, in spite of my cynicism, I have to admit I like his films. There is something very hypnotic about his ability to tell a story, even if some of his facts are questionable. Its much like flipping through the National Enquirer at the checkout line…you know it’s not all true, but it’s entertaining all the same.

4. Acting

   OK 2.5

   Interviews with folks who are struggling offer poignant moments.

5. Male Stars OK 2.5

6. Female Stars OK 2.5

7. Female Costars OK 2.5

8. Male Costars OK 2.5

10. Film

    Good 3.0

    Slick editing and the inclusion of media snippets keep the film moving along, even when discussing the technicalities of financial structures.

11. Direction Good 3.0

12. Play Good 3.0

13. Music Good 3.0

14. Visuals Good 3.0
15. Content

16. Edge

    Tame 1.2

17. Sex Innocent 1.2

    Luckily, there are no Michael Moore sex scenes.

18. Violence Gentle 1.2

19. Rudeness Polite 1.2

21. Reality

    Natural 1.0

22. Circumstantial Natural 1.0

23. Biological Natural 1.0

24. Physical Natural 1.0