The Founder
"The Founder" tells the true story of Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton), a struggling salesman from Illinois who stumbles upon the fast-food restaurant McDonald's in 1954. Impressed by the efficiency and quality of the operation, which was run by brothers Richard "Dick" McDonald and Maurice "Mac" McDonald (John Carroll Lynch), Ray sees an opportunity to gain massive success and achieve his American dream.
Ray convinces the brothers to let him franchise the restaurant and takes on the task of expanding the business nationwide. As the McDonald's brand starts to grow, tensions arise between Ray and the original owners over control and profits. Ray's relentless ambition and ruthless business tactics lead him to eventually wrestle the rights to the McDonald's name and concept away from the brothers.
As the fast-food empire continues to flourish, Ray's success comes at a personal cost. He faces ethical dilemmas, betrays the trust of his business partners, and alienates his own wife. Despite the fame and fortune, Ray finds himself struggling with the price of his ambition.
In "The Founder," director John Lee Hancock expertly navigates the delicate balance between portraying Ray Kroc as a driven and ambitious entrepreneur while also highlighting the consequences of his actions. The film does not shy away from showcasing Kroc's flaws and the ethical challenges he faces, allowing the audience to form their own opinions about the his decisions.
Release: 2016
Stars: Michael Keaton, Nick Offerman, John Carroll Lynch
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%
