Film Review: The Take

By
Michele Wilson-Morris

All across the globe, economic policies are being implemented by governments that sometimes have near catastrophic consequences. Economic globalization is failing, disproportionately impacting the middle and lower classes. Nowhere is this sad truth more evident that in Argentina where over half of the population lives below the poverty line. Just fifty years ago, Argentina was seen as the crown jewel of Latin America. Now, after decades of bad policy making, the Argentine government has declared bankruptcy, and by doing so, has become the country with the largest sovereign debt in world history. "The Take," an extraordinary film by Avi Lewis and Naomi Klein, takes you on an adventure to a place where even the poor and disenfranchised have become fed up and are fighting back in ways the government never expected.

On the eve of what would become a day of disbelief, the rich and powerful withdrew their money from unregulated banks. The following day, these financial institutions closed their doors, leading to a spectacular economic collapse and massive unemployment, with the people of Buenos Aires demanding justice and getting none. With their jobs gone because of factory and shop closings, the less than wealthy were left to fend for themselves, but with very few choices and growing support for the anti globalization movement, they took matters into their own hands in a very bold and ingenious way. It's called expropriation, and it's working so well, in fact, that many other nations might just decide to take their example and run with it.

Thirty brave unemployed auto parts workers decided to occupy, resist, and continue to produce in the same factories that were closed by the government, reopening them and taking over operations. In this eye opening documentary and gripping story of finding hope where there seemingly was none, viewers are shown how the workers resisted police with sling shots and the support of the Argentine people. "The Take" is an inspirational depiction of how good things can happen in the aftermath of tragedy, when people stand together as one and refuse to be silenced. This story should be told to everyone, and is a must see for anyone who needs to know that change for the better can come from just a few. I highly recommend "The Take."