Director: Victor Buhler
Year: 2013
Running Time: 90 minutes
Synopsis
For decades in Toledo, Ohio, Lott Industries has excelled at manufacturing small car parts. All 1,200 Lott employees have developmental disabilities, yet the company competes with traditional non-disabled businesses and achieves the highest quality ratings. When the US auto industry crisis hits, however, Lott’s market is wiped out and president Joan Browne has 12 months to reinvent or close the doors. For the workers, the stakes are even higher since their jobs are a refuge, not only from the impoverishment that affects the majority of America’s disabled, but also from social isolation. For employees Kevin, Wanda and T.J., work is more than just a direly needed paycheck; it’s a lifeline, a symbol of their dignity, and their dreams made real. The race to find a new business plan drives this engrossing recession economy drama, but it’s the humanity the film restores to the balance sheet that makes A Whole Lott More such a rare achievement.
Awards
2013 Hot Docs – Audience Award Winner
2013 Cincinnati Film Festival – Best Documentary Feature