SiCKO (2007)
The only filmmaker for whom I feel the need to make a paid appearance on his opening days is Michael Moore. Because he consistently brings to celluloid the themes of American life that urgently need to be discussed, I want to represent. It could almost be more important than voting at this point. Think about what he's covered thus far: downsizing of the American worker in Roger & Me (gee, we don't make anything anymore); in Bowling For Columbine he illustrated how we routinely kill each other; and in Farrenheit 9/11, he made it obvious for even the most aloof of citizens that our democracy is in serious crisis. Now comes SiCKO, which may be his most important film yet, because you can't always evade getting sick. Paris Hilton won't be holding your hair back when you're vomiting from chemo, so pay attention to this one. It just may save your life. That said, don't fear a lecture. It's informative for sure, but it's also entertaining and even suspenseful. On his boat trip to Cuba with sick Americans sitting on deck all around him, I felt deep fear in the pit of my stomach for him. Michael was at the helm gripping the American flag flapping rapidly in the ocean wind. I wondered if Michael was just a little bit scared himself. Feel the fear and do it anyway. I'm grateful Michael Moore does.