American Dream

This documentary focuses on a labor dispute at the Hormel meatpacking plant in Austin, Minnesota. After the company requests significant pay cuts during a profitable year, the local union initiates a strike to secure fair wages. As the conflict persists, the struggle creates deep divisions within the community, straining friendships and families while threatening the stability of the town.

Directed and produced by Barbara Kopple, this film was released in 1990. It is the second film in a series of works directed by Kopple, following Harlan County U.S.A. and preceding The Hamptons. The project was a joint production involving Channel 4 Television, Cabin Creek Films, and the Catholic Communication Campaign from the United Kingdom and United States.

The film has been well received by audiences. It holds a rating of 7.8/10 on IMDb based on 1,100 votes, while on TMDB it has a score of 7.3/10 from 17 votes.