For those who’ve somehow missed it, The Founder (2016) stars Michael Keaton as Ray Kroc, who turned a humble burger stand into the global fast-food empire we know today. It’s not just a “how McDonald’s got big” story—it’s a rollercoaster of ambition, business-savvy moves, and a sprinkle of corporate villainy. Spoiler alert: You’ll never look at the golden arches the same way again.
But here’s the real kicker: While Ray Kroc’s ruthless business tactics had me side-eyeing my screen, the scenes of perfectly assembled cheeseburgers, crispy fries, and frothy milkshakes had me side-eyeing my phone, ready to order everything off a food delivery app.
Why This Movie Made Me Hungry AF
Let’s break down why The Founder felt like an unintentional fast-food commercial:
- The Burger Montage:
There’s a scene early on where the original McDonald brothers show off their revolutionary “Speedee Service System.” Burgers wrapped in neat paper, fries crisped to golden perfection, shakes with that creamy swirl—honestly, it felt like food porn. I could almost smell the grease through the screen. - The Perfect Simplicity:
The film’s aesthetic makes fast food look almost artisanal. No complicated menus, no fancy plating—just pure, unpretentious, beautifully shot burgers and fries. It’s like the film whispered, “You know you want this.” And I did. - The nostalgic vibes:
Watching The Founder made me crave that old-school, classic fast-food experience. You know, the kind where the fries are salty, the Coke is extra fizzy, and the burger is just… simple and satisfying. No quinoa salads. No kale chips. Just the basics done right.
The Aftermath: My Fast-Food Binge
Cut to me, 10 minutes after the movie ended—scrolling through delivery apps like my life depended on finding the perfect burger. I’m not even ashamed. It started with, “Maybe I’ll just get some fries.” Then it escalated: “Might as well get a burger to go with it… oh, and a milkshake because it’s all about the aesthetic, right?”
Before I knew it, I had enough food to feed a small army. But did I regret it? Absolutely not. If Ray Kroc’s legacy taught me anything, it’s that fast food is designed to be irresistible. Mission accomplished, Ray.
What to Watch Next If You Loved The Founder
If you’re into movies that mix business drama with a side of real-life inspiration (and maybe a sprinkle of food-related cravings), here are some films to add to your watchlist:
- The Social Network (2010):
Like The Founder but with tech bros instead of burgers. Watch Mark Zuckerberg go from awkward college kid to billionaire, with a lot of backstabbing along the way. - Steve Jobs (2015):
Michael Fassbender as the man who made Apple iconic. Think product launches, personal drama, and intense boardroom showdowns. - Chef (2014):
If The Founder made you hungry, Chef will finish the job. Jon Favreau plays a chef who starts a food truck. Warning: You’ll be craving Cuban sandwiches by the end. - Moneyball (2011):
Brad Pitt makes baseball statistics sexy. Even if you don’t care about sports, this underdog story about data-driven success is ridiculously compelling. - The Big Short (2015):
Wall Street chaos, financial jargon, and Ryan Gosling breaking the fourth wall. It’s like getting a crash course in the 2008 housing crisis—but make it entertaining. - Julie & Julia (2009)
A food movie with actual cooking. Meryl Streep as Julia Child will have you googling French recipes before you can say “bon appétit.”
Final Thoughts: Blame It on the Burgers
The Founder is the kind of film that sticks with you—not just because of its sharp storytelling but because it taps into something universal. Ambition, innovation, and, let’s be real, the power of a perfectly crafted burger.
So, if you plan to watch it, consider this your warning: Do not start this movie on an empty stomach. Or do—just make sure you’ve got your favourite food delivery app ready.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I hear another burger calling my name.
