The documentary 'The Last Class' has captivated audiences, shining a light on the life and work of Robert Reich, a man of small stature but immense intellectual prowess. With a box office success of $700,000, the film explores Reich's journey as a scholar, social media influencer, and former Secretary of Labor.
A Yoda in Academia:
Reich, standing at 4'10" or 4'11", draws a playful comparison to Yoda from Star Wars, emphasizing that his impact is not defined by physical size but by the depth of his ideas. His online following and Substack subscribers exceed a million, captivated by his insightful commentary. Reich's influence extends to the thousands of students he taught at UC Berkeley, where his course on wealth and poverty was a campus sensation.
The Final Chapter:
The documentary captures Reich's last semester, directed by Elliot Kirschner. But here's where it gets emotional: the film goes beyond a simple farewell. It reflects on the passage of time, Reich's 40-year teaching career, and his recent 79th birthday. The film's power lies in its exploration of life's journey, from childhood to twilight, and the emotional impact it has on viewers.
Wealth Inequality: A Complex Tale:
Reich's academic focus on wealth inequality is brought to life in the film. He tackles the staggering wealth of figures like Elon Musk, Larry Ellison, and Jeff Bezos, making it relatable. Reich argues that the true impact of this inequality is seen in how it distorts our understanding of reality, as these billionaires influence media and politics. He believes this is the key to grasping the harm caused by such extreme disparities.
The Great Reveal:
Reich boldly asserts that the current political climate is a 'great reveal,' showing the choice is not between traditional left or right, but between democracy and its absence. He criticizes Trump's authoritarian tendencies, arguing that universities should resist government intrusion into academic freedom. Reich's own university, Berkeley, is mentioned for its less-than-ideal response to Trump's demands, contrasting with Harvard's stronger stance.
A Personal History of Bullying:
The film takes a poignant turn as Reich shares his childhood experience of being bullied due to his height. He recalls a friend, Michael 'Mickey' Schwerner, who stood up for him and was later murdered by the Ku Klux Klan. This tragedy shaped Reich's understanding of bullying, seeing it not just on the playground but in systemic racism, sexism, and power imbalances. The documentary resonates as Reich connects the bully in the White House to the broader issue of bullying, a theme that hits home for many.
A Hopeful Message:
Despite the heavy themes, 'The Last Class' leaves viewers with a sense of hope. Reich highlights the wonder of teaching and learning, and the excitement for the future embodied by his students. The film's success is a testament to its ability to engage audiences in a nonpartisan dialogue about education, inequality, and democracy, offering a unique cinematic and civic experience.
Controversy and Discussion:
The documentary sparks debate about the role of universities in resisting government influence and the extent to which wealth inequality affects our perception of reality. Is Reich's interpretation of the 'great reveal' too simplistic, or does it capture the essence of the current political divide? What responsibility do universities have in standing up to authoritarianism? These questions linger, inviting viewers to share their thoughts and continue the conversation.
