On this week’s Movies vs. Capitalism, Rivka and Frank are joined by filmmaker Jessie Kahnweiler for an off-the-walls discussion of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. In the last several decades, Hollywood film and TV production has shifted away from original stories and towards intellectual property (IP) driven projects. From films like The Lego Movie to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the resurgence of franchises like Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Indiana Jones, the studio system has prioritized IP above all other creative endeavors. Why is this? Obviously, CAPITALISM. Rivka, Frank, and Jessie unpack the most recent cultural phenomenon of Gerwig’s Barbie and how its overall message is emblematic of “plastic feminism.” They offer their conflicting feelings about the film’s success: how it is both a win for female filmmakers and an even bigger win for the toy company, Mattel. Jessie also talks about her experience being on strike, as a member of the Writers Guild of America (WGA), and what’s at stake for artists in Hollywood. For next week’s movie, MVC will be watching the 2002 drama John Q (with special guest Nina Turner!).This podcast relies on listeners like you to keep the show going:Go to MVCpod.com to become a supporter or leave us a tip. Supporters will also get access to The Lever’s premium content, including their exclusive newsletters, private podcast feed, e-books, and live events. MVC strives to practice its values as anti-capitalist media and will not be selling traditional advertisements. Instead, we will be donating our ad space to progressive or leftist causes. If you’re part of an advocacy organization, mutual-aid group, a worker co-op, a political campaign, or some other org, and you are interested in promoting your work on MVC, you can email us at moviesvscapitalism@gmail.com.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.You can also watch our full episodes on YouTube.Produced by The LeverArtwork by Rufus Paisley
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