This film, narrated by Scott Simon, argues the focus on material goods in modern society is the cause of many of our current problems. We are told by advertisers to be unhappy with what we have, and that we will be happy and cool once we buy more stuff. Yet materialism leaves people unhappy and unfulfilled.
People end up working harder to purchase even more goods, which undermines families.
Additionally, the increased production of useless items has devastating effects on the environment. Overall, a very effective indictment of consumer culture, economic growth and materialism. Wonderful use of commercials and humor to demonstrate the absurdity of contemporary culture. Reviewer Geoff Schneider. Outstanding documentary showing US workers losing their jobs due to less expensive foreign competition.