“I.O.U.S.A.” is a non-fiction film exploring the rapidly growing federal debt and its implication for the United States and its citizens.
Like many countries and empires throughout history, America is faced with the challenges of an ever-expanding government and military, increased foreign competition, and obligations it is finding more and more difficult to honor. As the Baby Boomer generation prepares to retire and begin collecting benefits from America’s over-extended entitlement programs, an economic disaster of epic proportions awaits.
Director Patrick Creadon interviews Americans-both average taxpayers and the government officials who decide how and where their hard-earned money is spent–in an effort to demystify the nation’s financial practices and policies. Creadon follows U.S. Comptroller General David Walker as he travels across the country in an attempt to explain the U.S.’s unsustainable fiscal policies to the American people. In addition, the film examines why, historically, the American government has found it nearly impossible to spend only what has been raised through taxes.
This non-partisan film is a tapestry of archival footage, economic data, and candid interviews, woven together to paint a vivid and alarming profile of America’s current economic situation. In its powerful conclusion, the film describes several possible financial scenarios and offer suggestions for how best to recreate a fiscally sound nation for future generations.
While helping audiences gain a firmer grasp on the topic, “I.O.U.S.A” drives home the message that America’s financial future is in jeopardy. When armed with facts and information, the American public can hold accountable those policy makers who are empowered with the grave responsibility of running the country.
