Bread and Roses
dir. Ken Loach · 2000
Plot
Maya is a quick-witted young woman who comes over the Mexican border without papers and makes her way to the LA home of her older sister Rosa. Rosa gets Maya a job as a janitor: a non-union janitorial service has the contract, the foul-mouthed supervisor can fire workers on a whim, and the service-workers' union has assigned organizer Sam Shapiro to bring its "justice for janitors" campaign to the building. Sam finds Maya a willing listener, she's also attracted to him. Rosa resists, she has an ailing husband to consider. The workers try for public support; management intimidates workers to divide and conquer. Rosa and Maya as well as workers and management may be set to collide.
Why watch
"Bread and Roses" is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience, blending humor and heart in the fight for dignity and justice. With its sharp wit and relatable characters, this film invites viewers to reflect on the struggles of the working class while celebrating the bonds of family and community.