Don't bother. I see what they were going for, and support the message they are failing to convey but I thought this to be one of the weakest documentaries I've ever seen and is vaguely humourous at best. They barely skimmed the surface of the issue of where all the stuff at Wal-mart actually comes from, and neglected to introduce us to any of the characters. I would have liked to know what inspired these people to join Reverend Billy's crusade. The Reverend himself seem's a sweet guy, but a bit ego-centric (and no, I did not derive this opinion from his scenes as a showman)and at his own wife's admission should try and think of a more effective approach if he truly beleives in his cause (which in all fairness, is a great cause). Actually, the part I found most humourous (or shall I say ironic) is when Rev Billy pulls out his shiny new Motorolla Razor cell phone in the hotel room, at least his wife has the decency to show her more archaic model on screen.
Anyhow, a very good message indeed was intended, however not delivered well by the Reverend or the film. I left thinking this film did not really accomplish anything, as this poor guy seemed to miss every target (no pun intended). He has valuable lessons to impart, but needs to hone his technique. My suggestion is to wait for the dvd...just don't buy it at Wal-mart.
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maturity
16 years ago
Right on, sarbarella. If anything, Reverend Billy and his choir are damaging the message they are trying to convey. I only laughed a few times. More often I found myself cringeing, because Billy is doing more damage to the anti-consumer cause than any of its opponents could do.
One funny bit was when the Wal-Mart employee tried to say how good her job was and all the benefits she had. Then she couldn't think of any benefits except a salary. That's nice, but should she have to work 16 hrs x 6 days a week without any health care and withouot any other benefits?
Watch "Surplus: Terrorized Into Being Consumers" for a different perspective. I think that voluntary simplicity should be mentioned.
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netshopper-2
13 years ago
This is not an intelligent documentary at all but a showcase for a lunatic and his followers. I had hoped for a serious film on this topic but instead got Reverend Billy who does not lay out facts and is simply obnoxious.
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