We The Economy

"We the Economy: 20 Short Films You Can't Afford to Miss" is a groundbreaking documentary series from 2014, premiered on pivot, designed to stimulate public understanding of the modern economy. The series attempts to unravel the complexities of economic concepts that are an integral part of daily life in an artistic, entertaining, and digestible manner.

The docu-series operates on the premise that many ordinary people find economics elusive and difficult to comprehend, which inadvertently leads to a public detachment from significant issues that impact society on multiple levels. From the ups and downs of Wall-Street to the fluctuation of gas prices, and to the depths of unemployment, "We the Economy" seeks to familiarize the audience with the principles that govern the economy.

The series includes a diverse collection of 20 short films presented in an eclectic range of styles - documentary, animation, musical, comedy, and drama to ensure the topics are engaging and accessible to a broad audience. Each film, roughly 5 to 8 minutes long, deciphers an economic issue or theme and then seeks to provide fascinating insights by answering pertinent questions.

"We the Economy" is a brainchild of acclaimed producers, Morgan Spurlock ("Super Size Me") and Paul G. Allen's Vulcan Productions. The series gathered an impressive array of talented filmmakers, including Academy Award winners and nominees, independent directors, and boundary-pushing digital artists. Some of the renowned contributors include Adam McKay, Catherine Hardwicke, Mary Harron, Marshall Curry, and Joe Berlinger, who each bring a distinct voice and vision to the task of illuminating economic theories.

The first season delves into the integral questions behind microeconomics and macroeconomics. It starts by examining the fundamental principles such as "What is the Economy?" and "What is Money?" moving on to more complex themes such as financial markets, globalization, income inequality, and government spending. Later episodes further delve into deeper economic issues such as corporate profits, health care costs, and role of natural resources in economy.

However, "We the Economy" isn't a stock economics lesson restricted to supply and demand graphs. The series aspires to be more than just an explainer. It harnesses various genres and narrative formats to tell engaging stories. For instance, a film might use a Hollywood-style movie trailer to provide insights about government regulation, or an animated fairy tale to elucidate the abstract concept of inflation.

What truly sets "We the Economy" apart is its approach to making economics both approachable and contextual. The series places a heavy emphasis on how economic principles influence everyday life, thereby narrating the stories and experiences of real people. It prioritizes relatability and practical understanding over complicated jargon and mathematical equations. Hence, instead of becoming a dry lecture on economics, the series engages the viewer on a human level.

In terms of presentation, "We the Economy" is visually striking. The myriad of styles and aesthetics keep the viewer's engagement intact. The script is well-researched and the narration is simultaneously intelligent and intuitive. The series ensures a harmonious blend of information and entertainment.

Apart from its educational objectives, "We the Economy" aims to inspire active participation among viewers. It encourages audience to think about the role of economics in their lives and make informed decisions about issues ranging from personal finance to public policy.

Despite its 2014 release, "We the Economy" remains a relevant tool for understanding economic concepts today. Whether you are a student perplexed by economic theories, a curious individual desiring to understand economic dynamics, or a decision-maker seeking to grasp how economic principles can affect and enhance your decisions, this docuseries offers a comprehensive and entertaining overview of economics.

In conclusion, through a combination of creativity and clarity, "We the Economy: 20 Short Films You Can't Afford to Miss" is a masterful attempt to demystify the economy for the average person, offering a refreshing way to perceive and appreciate the seemingly intimidating world of economics.