The American Dream: A Libertarian Journey Through Economic Realities
The American Dream is a satirical animated short film that takes viewers on a wild ride through the complexities and pitfalls of the modern financial system. Created by Tad Lumpkin and Harold Uhl, this cartoon tackles the often misunderstood and underexplored subject of the Federal Reserve, fractional reserve banking, and the consequences of central banking systems.
Released in 2010, The American Dream uses humor and engaging animation to explain how the financial system, particularly the Federal Reserve, operates. It criticizes the lack of transparency and the monopolistic control exerted by the Federal Reserve over the U.S. economy. The film portrays the Federal Reserve as the “greatest theft in human history,” delving into historical events like Andrew Jackson’s opposition to central banking and the actions of modern financial institutions like Goldman Sachs.
D.C. Douglas and Jess Harnell: Bringing Characters to Life
The film features the voice talents of D.C. Douglas and Jess Harnell, who bring a range of characters to life. D.C. Douglas is known for his dynamic voice acting, which adds a layer of gravitas and wit to the characters he portrays. His ability to embody various personalities is on full display in this film, where he voices multiple characters, each representing different facets of the financial system. Jess Harnell, another veteran voice actor, complements Douglas’s performances, bringing his own brand of humor and energy to the film.
Both actors are well-known in the voice acting community, with D.C. Douglas famous for roles such as Albert Wesker in the Resident Evil series, and Jess Harnell recognized as the voice of Wakko Warner in Animaniacs. Their collaboration in The American Dream adds a dynamic range of voices that keep the audience engaged while driving home the film’s critical message about the financial system.
Cast and Characters
While the film is primarily focused on delivering its message, the characters voiced by D.C. Douglas and Jess Harnell stand out for their unique personalities:
- D.C. Douglas as various characters, including financial gurus and narrators.
- Jess Harnell as various characters that add humor and levity to the heavy themes of the film.
The voice acting in The American Dream plays a crucial role in making complex financial concepts accessible and entertaining to a broader audience.
The Creators: Tad Lumpkin and Harold Uhl
The film was created by Tad Lumpkin and Harold Uhl, both of whom are passionate about libertarian ideals and the need for financial reform. Lumpkin, a California Libertarian, was motivated by the desire to educate the public on the intricacies of the Federal Reserve and the broader implications of central banking on the economy. By co-writing and directing The American Dream, Lumpkin and Uhl aimed to make these complex topics more accessible and engaging to everyday people.
Lumpkin’s appearance on Freedom Watch with Judge Napolitano to promote the film highlights its importance within libertarian circles and its role in sparking discussions about monetary policy and economic freedom. The film remains a significant piece of libertarian media, often used as an educational tool to introduce viewers to the concepts of economic liberty and the dangers of centralized control over currency.
Why You Should Watch The American Dream
The American Dream is not just an educational film; it’s an entertaining and thought-provoking journey through the often opaque world of finance. It uses animation and humor to break down complicated topics, making it accessible to viewers who might not have a background in economics. The performances by D.C. Douglas and Jess Harnell add a layer of charm and wit that make the film enjoyable, even as it tackles serious subjects.
Whether you’re a seasoned libertarian, someone interested in learning more about how the Federal Reserve works, or just a fan of smart, satirical animation, The American Dream is a must-watch. It challenges viewers to think critically about the financial system and consider the broader implications of monetary policy on their everyday lives.
So, if you’re looking for a film that’s both informative and entertaining, The American Dream is the perfect pick. It’s a short but impactful piece that will leave you questioning the structures that govern our economy and considering the possibilities for a freer, more transparent financial future.
