It’s Basic 2023
Directed by Marc Levin, *It's Basic (2023)* dives into the provocative idea of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) and how a single political proposal thrust it into the heart of America's national conversation.
Director: Marc Levin
Frequently Asked Questions
What is It's Basic (2023) about?
Exploring the rise of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI), this documentary follows pilot programs in U.S. cities that gave residents $500 monthly payments for a year. It ties these grassroots experiments to Andrew Yang's 2020 presidential proposal, framing the debate on economic equity and financial security.
Who directed It's Basic?
Marc Levin, an award-winning documentarian known for socially conscious films like *Slam* and *Counterfeit Paradise*, directs *It's Basic* with a keen eye for real-life stories that challenge conventional wisdom.
Who stars in It's Basic?
While the film focuses on real-life GBI recipients and advocates, key voices include Andrew Yang, Stockton's former mayor Michael Tubbs, and economists analyzing the program's ripple effects on communities.
Is It's Basic (2023) worth watching?
As a tightly focused documentary on a buzzy economic idea, *It's Basic* shines in its ability to turn policy into compelling human narratives. Though unrated on IMDb, its relevance to modern financial struggles makes it a discussion-starter worth your time.
How long is It's Basic?
The film runs 76 minutes, a concise runtime that packs in big ideas without overstaying its welcome.
About It's Basic (2023): How $500 Monthly Payments Sparked a National Debate
Directed by Marc Levin, *It's Basic (2023)* dives into the provocative idea of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) and how a single political proposal thrust it into the heart of America's national conversation.
The documentary unpacks the real-world impact of GBI pilot programs, where cities like Stockton and Compton tested monthly $500 payments to low-income residents, sparking debates on economic justice and financial freedom. Blending intimate storytelling with sharp policy analysis, the film captures an atmosphere of hope, skepticism, and the raw human stories behind the numbers—whether it's struggling families finding breathing room or critics questioning sustainability. As the 2020 presidential race heated up, Andrew Yang's $1,000-a-month pitch turned GBI from an obscure concept into a cultural flashpoint, making this film a timely exploration of whether money alone can rewrite the rules of economic survival.