Roger & Me

Michael Moore begins the film by sharing personal insights about his early life and family through nostalgic home movies. He characterizes himself as a 'strange child' who grew up in a blue-collar Irish American Catholic family in Flint, Michigan.

Moore reflects on the significant influence that General Motors had on his upbringing in Flint. He highlights the company’s historical impact, particularly referencing the 1937 Flint Sit-Down Strike that played a pivotal role in the establishment of the United Auto Workers union.

The narrative portrays memories of local figures from Flint, including Bob Eubanks and musicians from Grand Funk Railroad. These reflections paint a picture of a vibrant community that once thrived but is now facing industrial decline.

Seeking a new life, Moore moves to California and secures a job at a magazine in San Francisco. However, the opportunity slips away, prompting a return to his roots in Flint in 1985, where he discovers the changing economic landscape.

Upon returning to Flint, Moore learns that General Motors has announced significant layoffs that will ship jobs to Mexico, despite the company's record profits. This decision devastates the local workforce and ignites anger among the laid-off workers.

Disguised as a Toledo journalist, Moore interviews various auto workers to uncover their resentment towards GM chairman, Roger B. Smith. These candid discussions reveal the emotional toll the layoffs have taken on the workers and their families.

Determined to confront Smith, Moore attempts to meet with him at GM headquarters in Detroit but faces obstacles with security. This marks the beginning of a prolonged journey to track down the elusive chairman across various locations.

A poignant montage set to the Beach Boys' 'Wouldn't It Be Nice' captures the stark urban decay of Flint. The imagery portrays the rising crime and the exodus of residents against the backdrop of economic decline and unemployment.

Moore contrasts life in Flint with the affluent surrounding suburbs, showcasing a troubling disconnect. He highlights the ignorance and classism of wealthier residents, as well as failed initiatives by local authorities to entice tourism to a struggling city.

The film includes commentary from notable political figures like President Reagan, who suggests that unemployed workers should consider relocating. This underlines a broader theme of neglect towards the struggles faced by the Flint community.

Moore attends the 1988 GM Shareholders Convention, hoping to voice the grievances of laid-off workers. However, his efforts are met with refusal from Roger B. Smith, highlighting the stark divide between corporate officials and the affected workers.

The documentary features personal accounts from residents, including a former radio host turned Amway saleswoman. Through these narratives, the film captures the devastating impact of economic collapse on individual lives and families.

In a climactic moment, Moore finally confronts Roger B. Smith at a public event, contrasting the chairman's public image with the harsh realities faced by Flint families. The eviction of a local family serves as a poignant example of the consequences of corporate decisions.

Moore ends the film expressing his frustration over his inability to bring awareness to the struggles of Flint. He comments on the growing inequality, where the rich continue to prosper while the less fortunate find themselves in dire situations.

The film concludes with a striking message that reflects the fate of Flint: all movie theaters are closed, rendering it impossible to screen the film within the city. This encapsulates the broader narrative of economic decline and the loss of community.