Exploring The Umbrella Factory on Netflix A Review

Summary:

“The Umbrella Factory” is a documentary film directed by Steve Tatone, which focuses on the history of an umbrella factory in Maine. The film takes a closer look at the factory’s operations, the people who have worked there, and how the factory has impacted the local community. This review will explore the film and its themes in more detail.

1. A Unique Perspective on American Industry:

One of the things that makes “The Umbrella Factory” stand out is its focus on a smaller, more niche industry. While many documentaries about American industry tend to focus on larger corporations, this film takes a more intimate and personal look at a small business. By doing so, it sheds light on the struggles and successes of small business owners, and how they can impact their local communities.

2. A Celebration of Craftsmanship:

Another key theme of the film is the celebration of craftsmanship. Throughout the documentary, we see workers at the factory carefully handcrafting each umbrella, taking pride in their work and the quality of the final product. This attention to detail and dedication to craft is something that is often overlooked in modern manufacturing, and it’s refreshing to see it celebrated in this film.

3. The Importance of Community:

Finally, “The Umbrella Factory” highlights the importance of community. The factory has been a fixture in the small town of Greenville, Maine for over a century, and the film shows how it has impacted the town and the people who live there. We see how the factory has provided jobs and stability for generations of families, and how it has become an integral part of the town’s identity.

Overall, “The Umbrella Factory” is a beautifully crafted documentary that offers a unique perspective on American industry, celebrates craftsmanship, and highlights the importance of community. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in small business, manufacturing, or the impact of industry on local communities.

“The Umbrella Factory” is a documentary film that premiered on Netflix in 2021. The film is directed by Steve James and tells the story of a family-owned umbrella factory in Maine that has been operating for over 50 years.

The film takes us on a journey through the history of the factory and its owners, the Kilbreth family. We get to see the inner workings of the factory, from the cutting and sewing of the fabric to the assembly of the final product. Through interviews with the Kilbreth family members and employees, we learn about the challenges and rewards of running a small business in a changing economy.

One of the strengths of “The Umbrella Factory” is its focus on the human stories behind the factory. We get to know the Kilbreth family members as individuals, and we see how their personalities and passions have shaped the factory over the years. For example, we learn about the family’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, which has led them to use eco-friendly materials and processes in their production.

Another strength of the film is its exploration of the broader economic and social issues facing small businesses in America. The Kilbreth family has faced many challenges over the years, from competition from overseas manufacturers to changes in consumer preferences. We see how they have adapted and innovated to stay competitive, while also staying true to their values and mission.

Overall, “The Umbrella Factory” is a well-crafted and engaging documentary that offers insights into the world of small business and the people who run them. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, sustainability, or the human stories behind the products we use every day.