FAQS

1. What inspired you to make Baristas vs. Billionaires?

As a longtime documentary filmmaker focused on social justice—and as a former steelworker—I was deeply inspired by the courage of these young baristas taking on a corporate giant. When workers at a single Starbucks store in Buffalo launched a union drive, it was clear this was more than a local labor story. It echoed the same struggles for dignity and fairness I’ve seen throughout my career, and experienced firsthand. This is a generational fight for the future of work in America, and I knew it needed to be documented as it unfolded.

 

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2. How did you fund the film?

The film has been funded primarily through individual contributions, small grants, and in-kind support. All the core creative team—including myself as director and producer—deferred our fees to make this happen. This is truly an independent labor of love.

 

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3. How long did the film take to make?

We began development in late 2021, shortly after the initial union wins in Buffalo. It has taken nearly three years for the story to play out—and for the filming, editing, and postproduction work to unfold alongside it. We followed the movement as it exploded across the country, capturing events in real time as they happened.

 

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4. What makes your film different from other documentaries about forming a union?

Baristas vs. Billionaires centers on young, diverse voices—predominantly Gen Z and Millennials, many of them women—who are not traditional labor figures but became frontline leaders. We tell the story from their point of view, in their own voices, and highlight the organizing methods they used to build power. It’s not a history lesson—it’s a real-time portrait of a modern movement. Central to why the film works is the direct conflict we show between Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz and the baristas themselves—giving the audience a clear look at the imbalance of power and the courage it takes to challenge it.

 

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5. Who is the narrator, and why did you choose her?

The film is narrated by Academy Award-winning actress and activist Susan Sarandon. She’s long been a supporter of labor and progressive causes, and her voice lends credibility, warmth, and gravitas to the story without overshadowing the workers themselves.

 

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6. What are your hopes for distribution?

We are seeking distribution through festivals, theatrical screenings, streaming platforms, educational outlets, and union hall and community screenings across the country. We're also aiming for a national broadcast on PBS. Our goal is to reach both mainstream audiences and grassroots organizers, union members, and students—particularly those on campuses who have actively supported the Starbucks union drive and protested against Starbucks' anti-union actions. We hope the film serves as a tool for dialogue, solidarity, and continued activism.

 

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7. What is the main message you want audiences to take away?

That real change is possible when ordinary people stand together. The film shows that even in the face of billion-dollar opposition, young workers can spark a national movement—if they organize, persevere, and support one another.

 

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8. How did you approach the visual storytelling of the film?

We blended vérité footage with TikToks, social media posts, news coverage, and intimate interviews. The look and feel reflect the urgency, energy, and digital-native tools of the movement. We wanted the visual style to echo the spirit of the baristas: bold, unfiltered, and honest.

 

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9. What’s the tone of the film? Is it hopeful?

Absolutely. The film is raw and emotional at times, but ultimately hopeful. It’s about courage, solidarity, and the power of collective action. Despite setbacks and union-busting, the spirit of these workers is unbreakable—and that’s deeply inspiring.

 

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10. What age group is the film suitable for?

The film is appropriate for ages 13 and up. It’s especially relevant for high school and college students, young working-class audiences, and anyone interested in activism, labor rights, social justice, or a way to fight the billionaire class.

 

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11. What is the goal of the film?

The goal is to support these young baristas in winning a national union contract with Starbucks, while also raising awareness, inspiring action, and strengthening the broader labor movement. We want this film to educate, motivate, and equip viewers—especially young people—to believe in their collective power and take action in their own workplaces and communities.

 

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12. Will there be educational materials or a curriculum to accompany the film?

Yes, we are developing a companion toolkit for educators, community organizers, and labor groups. This will include discussion guides, lesson plans, and calls to action to help contextualize the film and spark organizing conversations.

 

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13. How can I support the film’s impact campaign?

You can support us by:

- Hosting a screening at your school, union, community center, or organization

- Spreading the word about the film on social media and helping us reach new audiences

- Contributing to our outreach and impact fund

- Connecting us with educators, journalists, or influencers who care about workers’ rights.