The Power of Choice: The Life and Ideas of Milton Friedman

The Power of Choice: The Life and Ideas of Milton Friedman is a 2007 documentary film that delves into the life and work of Milton Friedman, a renowned economist heralded for his profound influence on economic theory as well as on the economic policies of several global governments. Directed brilliantly by Jeffrey Kaufman and produced by Alika Productions and PBS, this film includes appearances by several notable economists and scholars such as Martin Anderson, Gary Becker, and Sean Byrne.

The film focuses extensively on Friedman's revolutionary economic theories and how his work marked a paradigm shift in the study of economics as well as governmental policymaking. A standout feature of the film is how it encapsulates the essence of Friedman's often-controversial tenure as an economist and his indelible impact on global economic landscapes.

Milton Friedman, whose life the documentary explores extensively, was a Nobel laureate economist whose influential work in the field of economics has shaped many economic policies globally. His theories challenged the prevailing Keynesian economic model, advocating instead for the free market as a vehicle for individual freedom. This documentary aptly brings to life the many ups and downs of Friedman's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the most influential economists of the 20th century.

Martin Anderson, an economist and policy analyst who worked closely with Friedman at the Hoover Institution, provides insightful commentary on Friedman’s life and theories. He offers the viewer a first-hand account of Friedman's persona and his intellectual prowess. Anderson's contributions show the viewers a perspective of Friedman from someone who experienced his work and ideas personally.

Further enriching the narrative is Gary Becker, a fellow Nobel laureate. Becker helps viewers understand the broad scope of influence Friedman had in his field. Becker, who also was a student of Friedman at the University of Chicago, shares detailed insights about the personal and professional life of this distinguished economist.

Sean Byrne, an economist and professor, brings in additional depth to the narrative, providing the viewer with a comprehensive understanding of Friedman's work and theories. Byrne’s detailed interpretation of Friedman’s theories helps to make these complex concepts accessible to the layman.

The documentary provides an enriching exploration of Friedman’s life and work, punctuated by archival footage, interviews with those who knew him best, and perspectives from a wide range of scholars and economists. The movie focuses not only on Friedman's work but also his ideology, summarizing his belief in the power of choice and individual freedom. It looks at how his work has influenced global economic policies, and includes a significant portion dedicated to his role in the Chilean economic reform, showcasing the global influence Friedman had during his lifetime.

The film does a commendable job of dissecting the complexities of economic theories and presents them in a manner that's digestible to the lay audience. By using simple analogies and explanations wherever possible, it ensures that viewers, regardless of their understanding of economics, can connect with the content.

In terms of production values, the film is a well-crafted piece that effectively captures the essence of its subject matter. The interview portions are appropriately interspersed with the archival and analytical segments, maintaining a smooth narrative flow throughout. This documentary is designed not merely as a biographical piece about a renowned economist, but also as a broader study of economic theories and their impact on society.

Regardless of one's personal beliefs about Friedman's theories and their implementation in real-world scenarios, The Power of Choice: The Life and Ideas of Milton Friedman offers an insightful and balanced view into the life, work, and legacy of one of the world's foremost economists. The documentary probes beyond just economics, delving into themes of individual freedom, societal structures, government intervention, and the power of choice.

The Power of Choice: The Life and Ideas of Milton Friedman stands as a definitive account of the life and works of one of history's most influential and controversial economists. It’s an enlightening watch not only for those academically inclined towards economics, but also for anyone interested in understanding how individual ideologies can shape global economic policies and influence societal structures. It stands as a testament to Friedman’s unparalleled contributions to the field of economics and the power of his ideologies in shaping global economies.