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Deep Dive: Citizen Koch (2013)

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Citizen Koch
Citizen Koch is a 2013 documentary directed by Tia Lessin and Carl Deal, focusing on the political influence of wealthy individuals, particularly the Koch brothers, following the Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC. This ruling allowed corporations to spend unlimited money to influence elections and public policy, which the film argues has significant implications for democracy. The narrative centers on the Koch brothers' financial support for Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and their role in the rise of the Tea Party movement after the election of Barack Obama in 2008. The film also addresses issues of censorship and funding challenges faced by the filmmakers. After the Independent Television Service (ITVS) withdrew its funding due to concerns over the title referencing David Koch, the filmmakers turned to a successful Kickstarter campaign to complete the project. The documentary premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2013 and was shortlisted for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Why Watch

  • •See the Koch brothers' impact on American politics.
  • •Find out how Citizens United changed campaign financing.
  • •Meet Scott Walker and his connection to the Koch brothers.

Did You Know

•Citizen Koch was completed using funds from a Kickstarter campaign.
•The film premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.
•ITVS initially pulled funding due to concerns over the film's title referencing David Koch.
•The Koch brothers' influence is linked to the rise of the Tea Party movement after 2008.

Perfect For

Political activismCampaign financeLabor rights