Capitalism A Love Story

Michael Moore tones down his typical style of film documentary for a surreal reflection of tough economic times. I found this documentary to be his best. Critics of Michael Moore would have a hard time to use their usual criticisms of him for this movie. He almost seems reflective, that his message over the past 20 years was largely, unheard by mainstream America.
Also, critics usually respond to his film style as biased. I found this movie to be well researched and thoughtful to the topic. Finally, what I liked most about his movie is the personal reflections. He reflects all the way back to Roger and Me, and in a poignant moment,goes back to his roots and has one more confrontation with GM
Highly Recommend!!!

The Grapes of Wrath

The Grapes of Wrath has many layers as a movie. I have watched it numerous times. The film's depiction of foreclosure of farms in the midwest during the Great Depression is relevant today. The concept that working families can lose their land and devastate family systems is powerfully portrayed in this movie.
For a movie made in 1940, it seems timeless. My favorite part is when their grandfather dies, and they have to bury him by the side of the road. In case someone finds grandpa, they document how he died as a precaution in case his death is deemed a homicide. The lack of a safety net is a reminder why many of our systems are in place today. A truly well made movie that accurately portrays the harsh economic conditions of the Great Depression.

Precious

Precious is a movie that strikes at the human condition. I can not emphasize enough how important it is for anyone who works in the safety net to view this movie. For me, it is a guttural reaction when I saw this movie. Precious is not a unique story. So many kids are raised in a chaotic environment in our country. What Precious is able to due is to take you into their reality.

Teachers, Social Workers, and anyone working in the field of human service are black and white. They either have empathy, or they do not. This movie should be viewed by the naysayer that believes in reality that all children are born equal. They are not. Some have huge obstacles to overcome. One of them being the value systems we impose on them.

Amazing Movie.
Watch it!

Who Do You Think You Are?

NBC has a new show that provides valuable insight into American History. The show is titled, "Who Do You Think You Are?" At first look, this seems like a celebrity reality show. However, the show is a lesson in the value of primary sources when studying our nation's history. Every 5th and 7th grader in New York State will connect with the show's use of primary sources to tell a story. (Primary and secondary sources are part of the NYS curriculum for both grade levels.)

The first episode researches the history of Sarah Jessica Parker. Her family comes over on the Mayflower, and one of her family members barely escapes the Salem Witch trials. She is amazed at each story she uncovers about her family history. Each turn is gut wrenching, because each generation has a story that will be an example of cause and effect into who she is today.

The second episode researches football star Emit Smith's family. This was a very telling, emotional tale of the ugly sides of segregation and slavery. It is quite moving to see how he reacts to each discovery of the dark side of American History. Classrooms across our state should show this episode to help students connect to our history as a nation.

I found a video stream that can be used in the classroom for teachers that is free. The link is: http://www.hulu.com/watch/134657/who-do-you-think-you-are-emmitt-smith. Or feel free to watch it here.