American labor history and the Starbucks union movement

The history of American labor movements is reflected in various cinematic works, ranging from classic films like "Modern Times" and "The Grapes of Wrath" to more recent depictions of worker struggles. These films often highlight the human dimensions of organizing, such as the "Justice for Janitors" movement depicted in "Bread and Roses."

More recently, the documentary "Partners: How Starbucks Baristas Started a Labor Revolution" documents the emergence of the Gen Z labor revival. The film tracks the organizing efforts that began in Buffalo, New York, which eventually led to nearly 700 Starbucks locations unionizing nationwide under Starbucks Workers United since 2021. The movement has been characterized by young, progressive baristas challenging the company's anti-union stance through legal complaints and protest actions.