Yep, a  film about why you should join a club — and why the fate of America depends on it!  In this feature documentary, follow the half-century story of America's civic unraveling through the journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam, whose groundbreaking "Bowling Alone" research into America's decades-long decline in community connections could hold the answers to our democracy's present crisis. Flanked by influential fans and scholars — from Hillary Clinton, Pete Buttigieg, and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to Eddie Glaude Jr., Raj Chetty, and Priya Parker — as well as inspiring groups building community in neighborhoods across the country, join Bob as he explores three urgent civic questions: What makes democracy work? Why is American democracy in crisis? And, most importantly… What can we do about it?

 

There has been a lot of recent coverage and government initiatives aimed at America’s loneliness crisis. The U.S. Surgeon General's advisory report found that loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26% and isolation by 29%. Surgeon General Murthy said in terms of your lifespan, continuing to live in loneliness is equivalent to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.

 

This film looks at the problem and points to a hopeful outcome.

"Proves itself vital and relevant, a necessary documentary that promises the conversation will continue long after the credits have rolled." - Stephanie Archer, Film Inquiry

"Everyone should watch this movie. It’s put together in an approachable and entertaining way and it’s a conversation we need to be having." - Rachel Wagner, rachelsreviews.net