Too Big To Fail was first broadcast on HBO last year. Now it’s out on Blu-ray. Essentially, Too Big To Fail is the story of how Lehman Brothers, an investment bank, failed and almost brought the U.S. economy to its knees. William Hurt plays a quizzical Hank Paulson, Treasury Secretary. Most of the time, William Hurt looks stunned in this documentary as the entire financial system becomes unraveled. James Woods plays Dick Fuld, the head of Lehman who becomes his own worst enemy. Cynthia Nixon stands out as one of Paulson’s aides. I especially liked Paul Giamatti as Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke (amazing resemblance!). Too Big To Fail traces the financial disaster from the beginning, but there really is no ending. We’re still in the same situation. Banks are still reckless with money. The financial system is still unstable. We need to return to the Glass-Steagall Act which divided commercial banks from investment banks. Until that reform is enacted, we’re all still in peril! GRADE: B+
Amen. I don’t think anything will get done until after the next meltdown and by then it might be too late.
I agree on the movie and Giamatti’s resemblance to Bernanke.
The scary thing about TOO BIG TO FAIL was how clueless all the major players were during the financial meltdown, Jeff. No one knew what to do.
I put this in the category with horror pictures. Have to cover my eyes.
We almost dropped into the abyss, Patti. We were an eyelash from having our whole economic system crash and burn. Yet, nothing much has changed. We’re still at risk.
Not looking forward to the Spanish remake, followed by the cheap Italian ripoff, but thanks for pointing to this one George as it hasn’t been shown in the UK (on the channels I get at least) …
The situation in Spain, Italy, Greece, etc. fit right into the theme of TOO BIG TO FAIL, Sergio. This documentary is well worth watching if the Blu-ray shows up at your local Wal-Mart or Costco.
There won’t be any change as long as the Republicans are in power. No economic improvements, no gun control, no bank reforms, nothing. God help us if Romney is elected. The GOP has lied and bluffed it’s way, with lots of help from the radical right Tea Party buffons, into a position where it’s possible.
Washington is gridlocked, Rick. If nothing changes the risk of a systemic financial failure still looms large. We’re all in economic peril.
Of course, George, you knew this one would bring out some kind of a rant from me….
Your rants are usually spot on, Rick. Too many people are taking the ostrich approach and ignoring the economic dangers we all face.