Justin Folk, the director of the film “Am I Racist?”, joins the show to discuss his collaboration with Matt Walsh. They previously worked together on the film “What is a Woman?” about three years ago. The idea for “What is a Woman?” stemmed from Matt’s question about gender ideology, which they believed proponents of the ideology couldn’t answer. The film involved asking simple questions to so-called experts and observing their ideologies crumble. The success and impact of this film led them to explore another controversial topic: race and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in America.
Justin mentions that they began working on “Am I Racist?” about a year and a half ago. The film blends documentary and comedy, featuring real situations where Matt Walsh interacts with people, often leading to uncomfortable yet humorous moments. Justin emphasizes that while the film is funny, it addresses a serious issue. They aim to entertain viewers while also sparking meaningful conversations about race and the divisive nature of current DEI initiatives.
Brian compares the film’s comedic style to “Borat,” noting that while “Borat” mocked everyday Americans, “Am I Racist?” targets bad ideas and exposes them. Justin agrees with the comparison but highlights that their film focuses on critiquing harmful ideologies rather than individuals. He believes the film has the potential to unify people by addressing common concerns about race and character, appealing to both conservatives and liberals. Ultimately, Justin hopes the film will foster better racial relations and challenge those who exploit these issues for personal gain.