LIFE AND DEBT (2001)
A Film by Stephanie Black
Jamaica, land of sand, sea and sun... and a prime example of the
complexities of economic globalisation on the world’s developing
countries.
With twenty-five years of “help” from the International Monetary
Fund (IMF) and the World Bank intended to bring Third World
nations such as Jamaica into the fold of free market economies,
these restructuring policies have crippled Jamaica’s efforts toward
self-reliant development while enriching the lenders. This scathing
film is an unapologetic look at the new world order from the point of
view of Jamaican workers and farmers, as well as government and
policy officials.
Featuring a dynamic reggae soundtrack and a searing voice-over
based on text by Jamaica Kincaid, as well as interviews with
former Jamaican Prime Minister Michael Manley, former Deputy
Director of the IMF Stanley Fischer and former President of Haiti
Jean-Bertrand Aristide, LIFE AND DEBT portrays the relationship between Jamaican poverty and
the practices of international lending agencies while driving home the devastating consequences of
globalisation.
“A must-see film”
NEW YORK OBSERVER
“Powerful! ...offers clearest analysis of globalization and its negative effects that I’ve ever
seen.” 4 STARS
NEW YORK TIMES
“Mandatory viewing for anyone interested in globalisation” 4 STARS
THE GUARDIAN
“engaging... incisive... Life and Debt is a very powerful weapon in the arsenal of the
global movement for a more equitable economic order.”
LINTON KWESI JOHNSON
“A timely, powerful work” 4 STARS
WHAT’S ON
Bonus Features:
• Additional footage of the interview with the late Michael Manley, former Prime Minister of
Jamaica
• Special bonus music video “Mr Heartless” by Anthony B
• Photo gallery of the International Anti-Globalization Movement
Certificate: PG
Running Time: 82 minutes
Aspect Ratio: 4:3 letterbox
Audio: Dolby Stereo
Country: USA
Language: English
Genre: Documentary
Region: 2
Cat. No: AXM623
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