The Wasteland Discussion Questions

  1. In what way did socioeconomic class completely shape the art that Vik Muniz planned?

Throughout the film, Muniz seemed to make many comments relating to both his own class standing, whether in his childhood or now, and about the class of the individuals he was working with. These comments really rubbed me the wrong way many times and I think is important for understanding the drive to complete this art project.

2. Other than monetary gains, what do audiences perceive are the benefits that were given to the workers through art?

In the film, Muniz really stressed that this art project would change the lives of all of the pickers, but I really am interested if others who saw the film really thought that the project made a difference as a whole.