Rachael Denhollander, though not directly appearing on-screen in “The Founder,” the film about McDonald’s expansion, her profound influence on the cultural conversation surrounding corporate responsibility and ethical behavior is undeniably woven into the film’s context. The movie’s release and subsequent discussions occurred against the backdrop of her growing prominence as an advocate for survivors of sexual abuse, subtly shaping the audience’s lens through which they viewed Ray Kroc’s ruthlessness and the McDonald brothers’ vulnerabilities.
The Unseen Hand: Denhollander’s Influence on the Narrative
While Denhollander isn’t depicted as a character in “The Founder,” understanding the timeline is crucial. The film was released in 2016. Denhollander’s public advocacy, particularly regarding the USA Gymnastics sexual abuse scandal, gained significant traction in 2016 and reached its peak in 2017 and 2018 with the Larry Nassar trials and her powerful victim impact statement. Therefore, the film’s release coincided with the very early stages of her public visibility.
This timing is important. Even though she wasn’t a household name before the film’s release, the burgeoning awareness of systemic abuse and the need for corporate accountability created a fertile ground for viewers to critically examine Ray Kroc’s actions. The film presents Kroc as a driven, almost predatory businessman, willing to exploit and ultimately undermine the very founders whose vision he built upon.
Consider the cultural context in which viewers absorbed “The Founder.” The emerging #MeToo movement, although gaining significant momentum later, was already a topic of conversation. There was a growing consciousness about power dynamics, exploitation, and the importance of ethical leadership. Against this backdrop, Kroc’s behavior, even if arguably within the bounds of the legal contracts he signed, could be seen through a harsher lens. He embodied a certain type of unchecked ambition that was increasingly being scrutinized in the public sphere.
Therefore, while not explicitly present, Denhollander’s later activism served as an unintended backdrop for audiences. It’s about the collective consciousness and the rising demand for moral integrity in all sectors, including the corporate world. The film invites audiences to ponder: At what cost is success achieved? What responsibilities do corporations have to their stakeholders, beyond the strictly legal ones?
Impact Beyond Direct Depiction
It’s crucial to understand influence can operate on multiple levels. Denhollander’s impact lies in the cultural shift she helped spearhead regarding how we perceive power, accountability, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. “The Founder,” released during this period of growing awareness, resonated with viewers in ways that might not have been possible before. The film subtly benefits from, or is at least colored by, this growing societal demand for ethical behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “The Founder” and its Ethical Implications
FAQ 1: What is the main ethical dilemma presented in “The Founder”?
The central ethical dilemma revolves around Ray Kroc’s relentless pursuit of success at the expense of the McDonald brothers, Maurice and Richard. He leverages their initial vision, expands the franchise using aggressive tactics, and ultimately deprives them of control and significant financial benefits. The film questions whether Kroc’s entrepreneurial ambition justifies his moral compromises.
FAQ 2: How does “The Founder” portray Ray Kroc?
The film paints a complex portrait of Ray Kroc. He’s depicted as a determined and resourceful businessman with a vision for McDonald’s potential. However, he’s also shown as ruthless, manipulative, and willing to bend or break rules to achieve his goals. He’s not a clear-cut hero or villain, but rather a flawed character driven by ambition.
FAQ 3: Were the McDonald brothers naive in their dealings with Ray Kroc?
Yes, the film suggests that the McDonald brothers were somewhat naive and trusting. They were focused on maintaining quality and consistency in their single restaurant and were hesitant to embrace Kroc’s aggressive expansion plans. Their reluctance to relinquish control ultimately made them vulnerable to Kroc’s power plays.
FAQ 4: Did Ray Kroc legally wrong the McDonald brothers?
The film suggests that Kroc operated within the bounds of the legal agreements he signed, although the final handshake deal where he “bought” the McDonald name was never formally finalized, leaving the brothers without the royalties they were promised. He exploited loopholes and used his financial and legal advantage to gain control of the company. While technically legal, his actions are portrayed as morally questionable.
FAQ 5: How does “The Founder” comment on American capitalism?
The film provides a commentary on the cutthroat nature of American capitalism, highlighting the emphasis on growth, profit, and market dominance. It suggests that these values can sometimes come at the expense of ethical considerations and the well-being of individuals.
FAQ 6: Is “The Founder” a pro-capitalism or anti-capitalism film?
“The Founder” is neither explicitly pro-capitalism nor anti-capitalism. Instead, it offers a nuanced perspective, showcasing both the potential benefits (innovation, job creation) and potential downsides (exploitation, ethical compromises) of the system. It leaves the audience to draw their own conclusions.
FAQ 7: What role does Joan Smith play in Ray Kroc’s success?
Joan Smith, Kroc’s second wife, plays a significant role. She provides him with strategic advice, connects him with crucial financial backers (her husband), and offers emotional support. She is presented as an ambitious and intelligent woman who contributes significantly to Kroc’s business acumen.
FAQ 8: How does the film depict the McDonald’s brand?
The film depicts the McDonald’s brand as a symbol of American efficiency, standardization, and consumerism. It highlights the importance of consistency and replicability in the company’s success. The Golden Arches become an icon of American culture, even as the human cost of that success is explored.
FAQ 9: What lessons can aspiring entrepreneurs learn from “The Founder”?
Entrepreneurs can learn valuable lessons about the importance of contracts, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the need to balance profit with ethical considerations. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of pursuing success at all costs. Due diligence, foresight, and ethical boundaries are paramount.
FAQ 10: How accurate is “The Founder” in its portrayal of events?
“The Founder” takes some creative liberties with the historical record. While it’s based on real events, some details are dramatized or simplified for narrative effect. It’s important to remember that it’s a film, not a documentary. Consulting historical sources and biographies can provide a more complete picture.
FAQ 11: What is Ray Kroc’s legacy today?
Ray Kroc is largely credited with building McDonald’s into the global fast-food empire it is today. He’s often hailed as a visionary and a master of franchising. However, his legacy is also tarnished by his treatment of the McDonald brothers and the ethical questions raised by his business practices. He remains a controversial figure.
FAQ 12: How does “The Founder” relate to current debates about corporate social responsibility?
“The Founder” remains highly relevant to ongoing discussions about corporate social responsibility (CSR). It highlights the tension between maximizing shareholder value and fulfilling ethical obligations to stakeholders, including employees, communities, and the environment. The film encourages viewers to consider the broader social and ethical implications of corporate decisions. It provides a historical context for understanding the ongoing debate about the role of corporations in society.