"Money for Nothing: Inside the Federal Reserve" is a thought-provoking documentary that delves deep into the workings of the U.S. Federal Reserve, the central banking system of the United States. Released in 2013, the film was directed by Jim Bruce.
Synopsis:
The documentary provides an inside look at America's central bank in its century-long existence. It explores the policies of the Federal Reserve and its impact on the U.S. economy, especially during times of financial crises.
Through interviews with economists, historians, and central bank insiders, the film examines the role of the Federal Reserve in shaping the economic landscape and its influence on financial bubbles and recessions.
Cast and Characters:
The documentary features a series of interviews with notable figures, including:
- Paul Volcker: Former Chairman of the Federal Reserve.
- Janet Yellen: Former Chair of the Federal Reserve.
- Peter Fisher: Former Under Secretary of the U.S. Treasury.
- Jeffrey Lacker: President, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
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- Free: None
United Kingdom (GB):
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
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- Buy: Amazon Video. (Note: Repeated twice, indicating multiple purchase options.)
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Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: None
- Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube. (Note: Some platforms are repeated, indicating multiple purchase options.)
- Free: None
Production Details:
Directed by Jim Bruce, who also co-wrote the film with Bill Still. The documentary was primarily shot in various locations across the U.S., capturing the essence of the country's financial hubs and institutions. One of the challenges during production was presenting a complex subject in an accessible manner for general audiences.
Reception and Awards:
Critical reception: Critics appreciated the film for its insightful exploration of a complex institution. It was praised for its balanced approach, presenting both the achievements and criticisms of the Federal Reserve.
Audience reception: The documentary was well-received by audiences, especially those interested in economics and finance. It shed light on an institution that operates largely behind closed doors, making it a valuable resource for understanding U.S. monetary policy.
The film garnered attention at various film festivals and was nominated for several awards for its in-depth analysis and presentation.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- The title "Money for Nothing" is a play on the idea of the Federal Reserve's ability to essentially "print money" and the potential consequences of such actions.
- The film features rare archival footage, providing a historical perspective on the Federal Reserve's decisions over the decades.
- One of the central themes of the documentary is the balance between government intervention in the economy and free-market principles.
"Money for Nothing: Inside the Federal Reserve" offers a comprehensive look at an institution that plays a pivotal role in the U.S. economy, making it a must-watch for those keen on understanding the intricacies of financial systems.