Karakorum International University Gilgit Baltistan

Course Name: Entrepreneurship

Submitted To: Mr. Kaleem ullah DAR

Submitted By: Nisar ullah

Registration No: 2022-kiu-243

Section : B

Topic: Review on movie The founder’’

Submission date: 24-10-2023

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Introduction

"The Founder," directed by John Lee Hancock and released in 2016, is a biographical drama film

that tells the story of how Ray Kroc, a struggling milkshake machine salesman, transformed a

small, family-owned burger business into the global fast-food giant, McDonald's. The film

delves into the entrepreneurial journey of Kroc, the ethical dilemmas surrounding his actions,

and the broader implications of the fast-food industry's rise. This literature review explores

critical perspectives on the film's narrative, its historical accuracy, and its portrayal of capitalism

and American culture.

Historical Accuracy

One of the central debates surrounding "The Founder" is its historical accuracy. While the film

provides a compelling narrative, it has been criticized for taking liberties with the actual events.

The film's portrayal of Ray Kroc's role in McDonald's success is somewhat simplified. In reality,

the McDonald brothers, Maurice and Richard, played a significant part in the company's early

growth, which is somewhat overshadowed in the film. Scholars have argued that the film

romanticizes Kroc's entrepreneurial spirit while downplaying the contributions of the original

founders. However, the film does capture the essence of how corporate interests can sometimes

eclipse the efforts of smaller entrepreneurs, reflecting broader themes in the business world.

Entrepreneurship and Ethics

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"The Founder" raises important questions about entrepreneurship and ethics. Ray Kroc's ruthless

pursuit of his vision often clashes with ethical considerations. He disregards verbal agreements

and manipulates the McDonald brothers to gain control of the company. Critics argue that the

film portrays Kroc as a self-made success story, downplaying his controversial actions. This

portrayal highlights the ethical gray areas that entrepreneurs may face in their quest for success,

emphasizing the tension between individual ambition and the welfare of business partners.

Capitalism and American Dream

The film can be seen as an exploration of the American Dream and the capitalist ethos. Kroc

embodies the classic American ideal of self-made success through hard work and determination.

However, "The Founder" also exposes the darker side of capitalism, where power and profit can

trump fairness and integrity. The film underscores the tension between the American Dream as a

meritocratic promise and the reality of corporate consolidation, revealing how this tension can

lead to moral compromises and exploitation.

Consumer Culture and Fast Food

The rise of McDonald's and the fast-food industry plays a pivotal role in the film's narrative.

"The Founder" offers a critique of the consumer culture that emerged in the mid-20th century,

driven by the convenience and consistency of fast food. Scholars have explored the film's

portrayal of how McDonald's transformed dining into an assembly line process and the impact

this had on American eating habits. Additionally, the film highlights the role of advertising and

branding in creating a global consumer phenomenon.

Cinematic and Performative Elements

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Apart from the thematic and historical aspects, "The Founder" has been praised for its

cinematography and performances. Michael Keaton's portrayal of Ray Kroc has been particularly

lauded for its depth and complexity, making Kroc a compelling character. John Lee Hancock's

direction effectively captures the era and atmosphere of the 1950s and 1960s, and the film's

visual storytelling contributes to its overall impact.

Conclusion

"The Founder" is a thought-provoking film that invites discussion on a range of topics, including

the accuracy of its historical narrative, the ethical dimensions of entrepreneurship, the American

Dream, and the rise of consumer culture. While it simplifies some aspects of the McDonald's

story, it successfully raises important questions about capitalism, ambition, and the ethics of

business. The film's critical reception is a testament to its ability to spark dialogue and encourage

viewers to reflect on the complex interplay between individuals, corporations, and society.