Roger & Me

Roger & Me

Year: 1989

Runtime: 91 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Moore

Documentary

This documentary follows ex-journalist Michael Moore as he returns to his hometown of Flint, Michigan, a city grappling with the devastating impact of General Motors plant closures. Over 30,000 people are left jobless as the city experiences economic devastation and rising violence. Moore attempts to confront General Motors CEO Roger Smith, highlighting the human cost of corporate decisions and the struggles faced by the community.

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Timeline – Roger & Me (1989)

Trace every key event in Roger & Me (1989) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Introduction to Michael Moore

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.

Flint, Michigan
2

The Role of General Motors

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.

Flint, Michigan
3

Life in Flint

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.

Flint, Michigan
4

Moving to California

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.

1985 California
5

The Layoffs Announcement

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.

Flint, Michigan
6

Interviewing 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.

Flint, Michigan
7

The Pursuit of Roger B. Smith

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.

Detroit
8

Documentation of Urban Decay

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.

Flint, Michigan
9

Contrast with Suburban Life

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.

Surrounding Suburbs
10

Political Commentary

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.

11

The Shareholders Convention

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.

1988 Detroit
12

Personal Stories of Struggle

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.

Flint, Michigan
13

Confrontation with Roger B. Smith

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.

14

Closing Reflections

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.

15

Poignant Conclusion

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.

Flint, Michigan

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 21:12

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Roger & Me

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