An Unreasonable Man

An Unreasonable Man is an American documentary film released in 2006. Centering around the life and work of one of America's most controversial consumer advocates, the film gives us a peek into the life of Ralph Nader. Directed by Henriette Mantel and Stephen Skrovan, An Unreasonable Man vividly strokes a portrait of an individual of consequence who has made a significant impact on society.

The film offers a closer look at Nader’s tireless dedication to effecting change from below. Often perceived as an eccentric and obsessive character who consistently prefers the path less travelled, Nader has nonetheless cast an indelible mark on American political and social discourse. An Unreasonable Man provides a balanced view of Nader's career and the controversies that swarmed around him.

One of the essential facets of the film brings us the role played by Nader as a prominent consumer advocate. The film gravely revisits his most fertile period in the 1960s and 70s, during which he, alongside a group of young idealists known as "Nader’s Raiders," would go on to influence the American legislative landscape significantly. The strides taken towards government policies and regulations in areas such as car safety, environmental conservation, and public health highlight their relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

Ralph Nader is well known for his presidential runs, and An Unreasonable Man doesn't shy away from tackling the controversy surrounding his campaigns, particularly the 2000 election. Critics, including many from his side of the political spectrum, blamed him for siphoning off votes from the Democratic candidate Al Gore, leading to the eventual victory of George W. Bush. The documentary gives an in-depth look at this part of Nader’s life, with comments and analysis from a diverse group of political commentators, historians, and key players from the respective election campaigns. Nader's reasoning and motivations behind his presidential bids provide a profound look at his ideological standpoints.

To supplement the historical footage, the directors have interviewed a wide range of personalities for their take on Nader's life and work. Among them is conservative commentator Pat Buchanan providing a contrarian viewpoint, and historian Howard Zinn lending a profound analysis of the sociopolitical context of Nader's actions. The title of the film, borrowed from George Bernard Shaw's quote, "The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man," perfectly encapsulates the essence of Ralph Nader's life dedication.

The film gives an unbiased view of Nader, portraying neither a cult of adoration nor a litany of vilification. Instead, it elucidates Nader's commitment to his causes, which is at times laudable and other times frustrating for many. It makes no claim for Nader's sainthood or villainy but paints a portrait of an unbowed idealist determined to create a better society.

One of the hallmarks of An Unreasonable Man is its storytelling technique. While mirroring the chronology of Nader's journey, it simultaneously fosters a to-and-fro dive into his early years and the more contemporary episodes of his life. It skillfully integrates archival footage, campaign videos, personal photos, and myriad interviews from people of all walks of life who interacted with Nader.

At its core, An Unreasonable Man is a deep study of Ralph Nader the individual and his colossal impact on American society. It recalls an indomitable spirit’s battles to make the world a safer place against corporate recklessness and government indifference. It is an exploration into the life of a man driven by the conviction that positive change can occur when people refuse to back down from fighting the inequalities and injustices within the system.

The film throws light on our public perception of leadership and activism, and the ever-changing landscape of American politics. So whether you admire Nader for his resolute will and achievements or abhor him for his perceived impact on the 2000 election, An Unreasonable Man is a must-see documentary offering a unique perspective into one of the most influential figures of modern America.