If you thought sharks were dangerous, just think if you’ve ever met somebody who has been attacked or killed by a great white or hammerhead. Now think if you know of anyone who’s suffering from the consequences of credit card debt. Jaws has nothing on Visa, as the new documentary film ‘Maxed Out’ will show you. Director James D. Scurlock analyzes America’s struggle with debt and the tactics credit card companies use to reel you in, hook, line and sinker. Scurlock explains:

We’re all led to believe that people get into financial trouble because they are irresponsible, but I’ve learned that most people are getting in trouble because the banks and credit card companies are setting their customers up to fail. Why? The more credit they give us, the more credit we need. When we inevitably fall behind, they can charge the huge late fees and the over-limit fees and the stratospheric interest rates that drive their profits. My goal was to paint the story of our debt-fueled culture in broad strokes. The more people I met, the more I realized that this is an emotional issue as well as an academic topic. So many people are being abused and manipulated by the financial industry but so few are asking “is this what we really want?” When the film is released, I’d like to challenge the assumptions about the way we live our lives and shift the debate. Do we really want to be in perpetual debt?

I think this is one topic that may seem boring at first, but ultimately we can all relate to and probably don’t give as much thought to as we should. I’m particularily interested in what the debt collector’s have to say. Afterall, they are just doing their jobs. Sort of reminiscent of Fred Ross, the likeable repo man from Michael Moore’s Roger & Me. The film is currently playing in a very limited run, dates and locations of which are available on the Maxed Out official website. You can also check out a number of clips from the film, available on the appropriately titled ‘Clips’ page. But before you do, make sure you take this opportunity to click on my Amazon ads and purchase some great documentary films onilne with your credit card.

Related Link: Maxed Out Official Website

Related Video: Maxed Out Official Trailer

Bonus Video: Exclusive YouTube clip