American Factory is a documentary film about a Chinese company’s factory in Ohio, a plant once inhabited by GM motors in a community that is struggling for jobs. As the camera follows the story of Fuyao Glass, viewers witness culture clash, unlikely friendships, two-sided xenophobia, big business battling unions, unions battling big business, and the resiliency of community. The film, now playing on Netflix, is the first film from Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground Productions.
If you’re still reading this, you’ll likely be apt to meet the people of Moraine, Ohio. There a no clear villains or heroes here, but the doc is filled with complex characters. Like the evolving story it follows, American Factory has an uneven rhythm, but by the time it closes you’ll feel vested in its outcome.
If you’re still reading this, you’ll likely be apt to meet the people of Moraine, Ohio. There a no clear villains or heroes here, but the doc is filled with complex characters. Like the evolving story it follows, American Factory has an uneven rhythm, but by the time it closes you’ll feel vested in its outcome.
In a nutshell: It’s an uneven documentary due to its complex story and some surprises along the way, but the camera access to this moment in time is noteworthy. It’s a discussion-worthy piece that should be seen. (Now streaming on Netflix.)
Award Potential: American Factory played well at Sundance and has been nominated for Best Documentary in the 2020 Oscars.
The Ten Buck Review: Worth ten bucks.
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