Risk taker. Rule breaker. Game changer.|Sep. 13, 2016|United States, Greece|115 Min.|TV-PG
Genre: Drama;History
Description: The Founder (2016) is a compelling film that tells the story of Ray Kroc, a milkshake machine salesman in 1954. Despite having a supportive wife, Ethel, and a comfortable life in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Ray yearns for more. His journey begins when he discovers that a drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, is ordering an unusually high number of milkshake mixers. Curious, Ray visits the establishment and encounters McDonald’s—a popular walk-up restaurant known for its fast service, quality food, disposable packaging, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Impressed by the operation, Ray meets the McDonald brothers, Maurice “Mac” and Richard “Dick” McDonald. They share the story of how they developed their “fast food” system and give him a tour of their efficient kitchen. Ray suggests franchising the business, but the brothers are hesitant due to previous failed attempts with absentee franchisees. After persistent efforts, Ray convinces them to let him lead the franchising efforts under strict conditions, including their approval for any changes.
Ray initially struggles to attract wealthy investors but eventually targets middle-class individuals who are more hands-on and committed to following the McDonald’s formula. This strategy succeeds, leading to the rapid expansion of McDonald’s franchises across the Midwest. Along the way, Ray begins portraying himself as the creator of McDonald’s, setting the stage for the brand’s global success.
Cast director: John Lee Hancock
Cast actor: Michael Keaton, Nick Offerman, John Carroll Lynch, Linda Cardellini, Patrick Wilson, B.J. Novak, Laura Dern, Justin Randell Brooke, Kate Kneeland, Wilbur Fitzgerald
Original name: The Founder