Explaining Economic Issues
Posted on August 31, 2008 at 12:52 pm
My selection of David Copperfield
All of the suggestions are worthwhile, including classics like Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds
If they had allowed me to recommend a movie, I would have suggested I.O.U.S.A., Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room, The Corporation, “Maxed Out,” and “The Solid Gold Cadillac,” all of which should be shown to every high school and college student and every person eligible to vote before they are allowed to see the next big blockbuster.
Nell, I was going to compliment you on your entry in the Sunday WaPo business section, so I’m glad you referenced it here.
Here I thought that “Movie Mom” might be your day job, but it turns out you are even more accomplished than I thought. (Interestingly enough, “David Copperfield” is one of the next works of fiction on my reading list.) Perhaps Obama or McCain should have vetted you for VP:-)
Alicia, thanks so much! Your comments are always delightful but this one really made my day!
Nell,
The Movie “Wall Street”, especially Gecko’s soliloquy on Greed is worth some time and consideration. I think that speech is right up there with the opening soliloquy from the movie “Patton”.
One more thought –
Are you acquainted with the BBC series “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Perrin”? It is as marelously quirky as so many of the other Brit Com’s. But this one does address our cultural commitment to consuming.
Another American film I suggest is “Mr Mom”. Terry Garr’s role in the advertising firm is quite interesting. The way it that Michael Keaton’s characters deals with the change in roles based on economic status is timely (perhaps some overlap with Mister Sarah Palin – whatever his name may be – is worth exploring)
Hi, jestrfyl. I hated “Wall Street.” It’s not that I disagree with the film’s message, necessarily, but I thought it was delivered with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer. But, “Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room” is definitely on my list of movies I want to see on DVD.
Thanks, Nell. I don’t usually read the Sunday WaPo, ’cause it is just so big. (If I tried to read everything in it I wouldn’t have time to do any other reading.) But, I was so happy I bought it this past weekend. Keep reviewing!