Watch Park Avenue: Money, Power & The American Dream

Park Avenue: Money, Power & The American Dream is a 2012 documentary film that delves deep into the history and current state of income inequality in the United States. The film is directed and produced by Alex Gibney and features interviews with experts, academics, politicians, and journalists who provide insight into the controversial issue of wealth distribution in America.

The film takes its name from Park Avenue, the iconic street in Manhattan, New York City, which houses many of the country's wealthiest and most influential people. Through a series of interviews and case studies, the film highlights the extreme disparities between the wealthy elite who live on Park Avenue and the average American citizens living elsewhere in the country.

One of the key themes of the film is the idea that the American Dream, the notion that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination, has been eroded over the years due to rising levels of wealth inequality. The film argues that the top 1% of the population, who control a disproportionate amount of the country's wealth, have used their power and influence to shape policies in their favor at the expense of the majority of the population.

The film explores the ways in which the wealthy elite have been able to maintain their hold on power through various means, including lobbying and campaign finance, which allows them to influence politicians and lawmakers to pass legislation that benefits them. The film also looks at the role of tax policy and how the wealthy have been able to avoid paying their fair share of taxes through various loopholes and offshore accounts.

One of the most compelling segments of the film is a comparison between two buildings located on opposite ends of Park Avenue: 740 Park Avenue and 10 Park Avenue. 740 Park Avenue is a luxurious co-op building where many of the country's wealthiest people live, while 10 Park Avenue is a low-income housing project located just a few blocks away. The film contrasts the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy residents of 740 Park Avenue with the struggles of the residents of 10 Park Avenue, many of whom are living in poverty.

The film also features interviews with several experts and economists who provide insight into the economic factors driving income inequality, including the decline of unions and the outsourcing of jobs overseas. The film argues that these factors have contributed to a system where the wealthy elite have become richer while the rest of the population struggles to make ends meet.

In addition to exploring the causes and consequences of income inequality, the film also looks at possible solutions for addressing the issue. The film argues that policies such as progressive taxation, increasing the minimum wage, and strengthening unions could help to reduce income inequality and restore the American Dream.

Overall, Park Avenue: Money, Power & The American Dream is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that sheds light on one of the most pressing issues facing the United States today. The film provides a clear and compelling argument for why income inequality is a problem that needs to be addressed, and offers several possible solutions for addressing the issue. Whether you are a student, an activist, or just an interested citizen, this film is a must-watch for anyone who cares about social justice and economic equality in America.