The Founder
1954. Ray Kroc, who has worked in sales for most of his adult years, is a hustler. Ray Kroc’s hustle has earned him ridicule from some circles because he sells products that are more novelty- or faddish than practical. However, it has provided more than just a roof over Ethel and him in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Ethel wishes he put as much effort in being with his wife as selling. His current job, which involves him traveling from drive-in to another, is a five-spindle milkshake maker for Prince Castle. He is attracted to McDonald’s in San Bernardino by the brothers Maurice McDonald-Dick and Mac. The McDonald’s brothers purchase eight machines to supplement their one restaurant, unlike most Ray’s customers. The brothers redesigned their drive-in restaurant primarily on Dick’s suggestion. They have kept the menu simple and focused on high quality food. Although they had previously tried franchising, the brothers failed to retain control of many aspects that made their San Bernardino location successful. The McDonald’s brothers were hesitant to sign a franchise agreement with Ray, despite believing him to be a little crazy. Ray has had a difficult time with the job, particularly since his franchisees are making much more than Ray, and he’s only just breaking even. Ray is open to new ideas if they are needed to succeed. He sees the brother’s inability to think big as the biggest obstacle to his success. This leads to friction between Ray and Ray’s brothers. Ray has a different business goal, and Ray is more concerned with his own personal ego. –Huggo
Director: John Lee Hancock
Actors: B.J. Novak, John Carroll Lynch, Laura Dern, Linda Cardellini, Michael Keaton, Nick Offerman, Patrick Wilson
Country: Greece, United States
