The Great American Lie 2020

The Great American Lie is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the current landscape of inequality in America, tracing its origins back to the long-held ideals of the American Dream. This film presents a compelling narrative on how these ideals shape our society, instilling and perpetuating inequalities that deepen our social, economic, and political divides.

At the heart of the story is a stark realization: our society is increasingly fragmented and unbalanced. The cultural shift has disproportionately favored a masculine worldview, leading to a glorification of traits traditionally viewed as “masculine,” such as wealth, authority, and individualism. Conversely, values seen as “feminine,” including empathy, cooperation, and community, are often marginalized. This shift has resulted in a staggering level of inequality reminiscent of the Great Depression, and as disparities widen, so does the crisis of connection among individuals.

The documentary brings to light America’s extensive inequality through the personal stories of five individuals, highlighting how societal norms regarding gender values privilege a select few while suppressing many. Among these narratives, we meet a public school principal advocating for her impoverished students, a social advocate whose mission is to illuminate the challenges faced by low-wage female workers, a public interest lawyer who champions criminal justice reform prioritizing care rather than retribution, a steelworker grappling with the consequences of job losses, economic despair, and addiction, and a conservative single mother from the South who embarks on a transformative journey from disconnection to community and understanding.

These poignant stories are enriched by insights from experts who provide crucial historical, political, and economic context, creating a multifaceted understanding of the issues at hand. The Great American Lie is extraordinarily relevant and urgent, given the alarming state of inequality today. However, it also stands out for its innovative approach. By incorporating the perspective of gender into the discussion, this documentary broadens the dialogue surrounding the causes of and potential solutions to America’s growing inequalities and divisions.

Having previously explored the implications of restrictive gender narratives in society through their earlier works, Miss Representation and The Mask You Live In, the documentary team presents this film as a pivotal culmination of their efforts—a definitive exploration of how gendered values influence the broader American societal framework.