Movies vs. Capitalism

Rivka and Frank are joined by actor, writer, and comedian Ele Woods to discuss the 1988 classic, Working Girl, the prototypical “girl boss” film, and how it brilliantly portrays the predatory male gaze dominant in 1980s cinema. They also do some Melanie Griffith voice ASMR, in case that's what you're into.

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Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

On the inaugural episode of Movies vs. Capitalism, Rivka and Frank are joined by journalist, writer, and The Lever founder David Sirota to discuss the Reagan-era classic Ghostbusters. They discuss how the film’s pro-business, anti-government messages are baked into almost every scene, which is extra troubling considering the movie was was largely marketed to children. They also dig into the film’s sexual politics, specifically how Peter Venkman is a next level creep.

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Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Rivka and Frank are joined by filmmaker, writer, and activist Pedro Ángel Rivera Muñoz to discuss Charlie Chaplin’s anti-capitalist masterpiece Modern Times, which remains relevant to this day with its grotesque depiction of factory working conditions, its satire of the ruling class and state power, and the aspirational message of its ending. They also discuss the historical context of Chaplin as a political artist during the 1930s, and the retribution he received at the time.

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Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Rivka and Frank are joined by writer and director Adam McKay — MVC's first official Academy Award winner, no big deal. Adam joins the pod to unpack the 1999 movie Office Space, Mike Judge’s comedic meditation on the modern work environment. The group breaks down the film’s stark portrayal of worker alienation, the brutality of corporate consultants, and how this movie has become even more relevant almost 25 years after its release.

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MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at [email protected].

Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen

Rivka and Frank are joined by comedian Kate Willett for a conversation about the 1968 horror classic Rosemary’s Baby. They discuss how the film is an overt metaphor for the domination and control of a woman’s body, Mia Farrow’s incredible performance as a woman being gaslit by her husband and neighbors, and how the film’s generational dynamics mirrored the violent political upheavals in the U.S. during the late ‘60s.

• Kate Willett: Loopholes

For next week’s movie, we’ll be watching the 2001 comedy Rat Race.

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MVC donates its ad space to progressive or leftist causes and organizations. If you’re interested in promoting your work, email us at [email protected].

Artwork by Rufus Paisley | Theme song by JustBen