Roger & Me

Roger & Me is a 1989 American documentary film that marked the debut of modern American filmmaker and political commentator, Michael Moore. Moore's directorial debut is a devastatingly poignant and comical documentary that uses humor to explore serious issues, primarily shedding light on the consequences of a society built on economic rationalism.

The film revolves around Moore’s quest to confront the then-chairman of General Motors (GM), Roger B. Smith. The story spins off in the late 1980s, precisely in Flint, Michigan - Moore's hometown, which was annihilated by the closure of several General Motor's auto plants. As the primary employer in town, GM's plant closures led to massive job losses - around 30,000 - sending Flint into a spiral of economic demise.

As the unfolding devastation unfolds, Moore, armed with a crew and a sense of determined humor, attempts to interview Roger B. Smith. Moore's mission lies in holding the chairman accountable for his decisions, which have uprooted so many lives in the community. The title of the film gives a clear perspective on Moore’s fervent pursuit to encounter the ever-elusive GM CEO, amidst the backdrop of rampant unemployment, poverty, and desolation.

The film puts the spotlight on both the devastating economic impacts and human consequences of large-scale industrial downsizing. It is a tale of relentless pursuit and a community grappling with the aftermath of an economic disaster.

One of the most memorable aspects of Roger & Me is its adept mixing of humor and tragedy - a technique that would become a signature of Moore’s filmmaking style. Moore's approach, encompassing both light-hearted antics and stark reality, serves to amplify the gravity of the situation. On one side, it depicts the grim reality of an abandoned middle-class, while on the flip side, Moore’s quest for Roger is painted with humorous undertones – offering a horrified yet humorous look at the harsh realities of economic policy decisions. This signature style, initiated in Roger & Me, would continue to frame Moore’s career as a provocative filmmaker.

Interspersed with the primary narrative are numerous smaller tales chronicling the labor force’s plight in Flint. Exposed are the scandals and bizarre attempts by the city to salvage its economy and image, coupled with tales of evictions and despair. This portrayal serves to unpack the direct and indirect consequences of the auto factory’s closing. It probes the community’s attempts to cope, illuminating the resilience and indomitable spirit of the townsfolk amidst dire circumstances.

Moore creates a stark contrast by covering affluent events and individuals, heightening empathy for the victims of unemployment and eviction. The movie also introduces viewers to Rhonda Britton, who raises rabbits for food and selling their fur to earn a living, signifying how desperate times lead to desperate survival mechanisms.

Despite being a product of the late '80s, Roger & Me’s commentary on industrial downsizing, job outsourcing, and economic disparity is just as relevant today. The film presents issues that continue to plague sections of society and questions the viability of a laissez-faire capitalist model.

Roger & Me stands as a captivating socio-political commentary, spiked with strong personal undertones and scathing critique. It serves as a snapshot of a particular era, yet resonates universally with the further reaches of social disenfranchisement and economic disparity. Throughout this 91-minute-long documentary, Michael Moore manages to encompass profound and emotional stories with a layer of absurd humor, making its collective narrative a compellingly diverse and potent viewing experience. It not only established Moore as a distinct filmmaker but also initiated a daring style of documentary filmmaking.

Packed with a potent mix of humor, pathos, and indignant anger, Roger & Me is a compelling and significant documentary from the annals of American cinema. Its narrative continues to be relevant and thought-evoking, making it a must-watch for audiences interested in social issues and the art of documentary filmmaking.