Whether you agree with his political ideals and arguments or not, the award-winning documentary filmmaker could use a copy of Unite and Conquer if he really wants to advance his message.
While, yes, we’re often drawn to controversy and shocking stories (which is undoubtedly why three of hid films fall within the top five highest-grossing documentaries of all time), it doesn’t create a positive message that people want to associate with. In his films, he’s often attacking the people behind the issues he’s against, and as I’m sure you’ve learned in life, that’s not the best way to go about making friends.
While he proclaims he isn’t a political activist, it’s obvious through all the films, commentary and endorsements that it is one of his main goals. If Michael Moore really wanted to see change within the issues that he feels strongest about he would start communicating values, such as compassion and transparency, instead of trying to make people look unintelligent and cold-hearted. While his viewership would decline, he’d have a lot more friends that might be willing to listen to what he has to say and see how they can work with him.
I am curious though - what large progressive social changes have occurred without some segment of the movement painting those with a vested interest in maintaining the status quo as cold-hearted, malicious, etc?
ReplyDeleteI understand people have to form coalitions to work with diverse interests to institute change, but has there not always been agitators who bring the issues to the fore and reveal the powers that be as cruel and heartless - exactly what Moore does.
In fighting for the 8 hour work day, there were strikes and violence. Cartoons painted the 'captains of industry' as monsters. Eventually, certain companies acquiesce and eventually laws were agreed to. Could the initial strife have been skipped over? I don't think so, but certainly once there was enough pressure for politicians to actually do something about it, yes they needed to work together.