Movies vs. Capitalism

Jon Shelton (author of The Education Myth: How Human Capital Trumped Social Democracy ) returns to MVC to talk about the 1977 Disco Movie phenomenon Saturday Night Fever. Rivka, Frank, and Matt explore the cultural amnesia surrounding the film’s plot, its commentary on 1970s working-class politics, and its fascinating origin story. For next week’s movie, we’ll be watching the 2024 sci-fi horror movie Alien: Romulus. 🤝 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com. Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Matt Strackbein (AKA The Letterhack) is back on MVC to talk about Andrew Dominik’s bleak 2012 crime drama Killing Them Softly. Rivka, Frank, and Matt discuss how the film, set during the 2008 financial crisis, serves as a subtextual critique of Obama’s first term, how the “criminal” economy drives the plot of the film, and how the film’s nihilism has become even more relatable today than when it was released.  A New Economic Bill of Rights for the 21st Century For next week’s movie, we’ll be watching the 1977 John Travolta smash hit Saturday Night Fever.  🤝 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com. Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Rivka and Frank return for another "duet" episode, diving into Sam Raimi's 2009 horror-comedy Drag Me to Hell. This time, they explore whether the film serves as a horror story about class betrayal or a metaphor for eating disorders under capitalism. They also discuss the film's problematic racial tropes and consider the director's political intentions. For next week’s movie, we’ll be watching another 2012 pic, the crime drama Killing Them Softly. 🤝 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com. Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Harvey Kaye returns for the dramatic final installment of our Ask a Marxist series. In this final episode, Rivka and Frank get Harvey’s take on the Democratic party, revolution, and what he would do as the *democratically elected* president of the U.S. 🤝 TO HEAR THE FULL EPISODE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism For next week’s movie, we’ll be watching the 2009 horror movie Drag Me to Hell. 

In a dive into the horror-comedy 'The Cabin in the Woods,' the hosts unravel its sharp critique of capitalism and societal sacrifice. They highlight how the film subverts classic horror tropes while addressing issues like corporate control and community morality. Alongside this, there's a lively discussion on reality TV dynamics from 'Love is Blind,' where political divides challenge relationships. Expect a thoughtful exploration of empathy in capitalism and how these themes resonate through the lens of popular culture.

Zachary Marlow, a radical filmmaker with Moneyless Society, joins the hosts for a whimsical yet insightful discussion about Monty Python and the Holy Grail. They explore how the film critiques capitalism and authority through humor, drawing connections between feudalism and modern neo-feudalism. Marlow argues that Dennis the peasant embodies better politics than God. The conversation dives into the absurdity of power dynamics, urging listeners to rethink societal norms while celebrating creative expression as a catalyst for change.

Rivka and Frank are joined by award-winning infini-hyphenate artist Larry Powell (they/them) to discuss Steven Spielberg's 1991 classic Hook. Beloved by many, this live-action Peter Pan story starring Robin Williams doubles as a critique of capitalism's impact on family structure, reminding us of the importance of reconnecting with our inner child and radical imagination. The group also delves into the colonial nature of Neverland and its gender politics. Powell House of Arts PASSION 🤝 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com. Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Join Rivka and Frank as they delve into captivating discussions with historian Harvey Kaye. They explore the duality of capitalism, debating its role in fostering innovation while also critiquing its myths. Kaye shares his favorite progressive speakers and highlights current organizing strategies. Don't miss out on this engaging discourse that challenges conventional thinking and sparks new ideas about economic rights!

Rivka and Frank are joined by Marie Buck and Mathew Walker, co-authors of Spoilers (Golias Books, 2024), a book about watching movies with people you love, to discuss Richard Linklater’s 1991 film Slacker, an ode to Austin and Generation X. They dive into how the film captures the aimlessness of the era while embodying the distinct Slacker ethos. The group also explores themes of conspiracy, a fractured left, and the enduring relevance of Slacker in today's cultural landscape. Spoilers (Golias Books) primaryinformation.org 🤝 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON 🤝 www.patreon.com/movies_vs_capitalism MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com. Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Harvey Kaye, a Professor Emeritus of Democracy and Justice Studies and an expert on Marxist theory, joins the discussion to tackle listener questions. Kaye debunks common capitalist myths and shares recommended readings for those new to Marxism. The conversation also weaves through the complexities of modern political identities and the challenges of meaningful discourse. Additionally, Kaye highlights the importance of community and altruism, urging a shift from viewing human nature as inherently greedy to a more collaborative perspective.