A thought-provoking and inspiring documentary that examines the power of fashion, activism, and the price of progress. A must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of business and social change.
Review Rhonda at_ ouchmagazine
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A Man With Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole I Official Trailer
In A Man With Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole, the documentary charts the remarkable and often controversial journey of the eponymous fashion mogul, Kenneth Cole, whose brand has transcended mere aesthetics to become a cultural force that addresses pressing social issues. With a career spanning over four decades, Cole has woven his business acumen with deep social activism, typically stepping into the spotlight not just to sell shoes, but to ignite conversations about topics like AIDS awareness, homelessness, LGBTQ+ rights, and, more recently, mental health.
At the core of this compelling documentary is the delicate balancing act that defines Cole's legacy: the precarious line between visionary entrepreneurship and social responsibility. The film opens with a candid look at the evolution of Kenneth Cole Productions—how a young designer with big dreams turned his modest footwear brand into a global symbol of fashion innovation and social consciousness. But the true heart of the story lies in how Cole has consistently used his platform to challenge norms and advocate for underrepresented communities, sometimes at great personal and financial risk.
The film gives viewers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into Cole’s personal struggles and triumphs, not just as a businessman, but as a man with an unyielding sense of social duty. The risks he’s taken—launching controversial ad campaigns that address everything from HIV/AIDS to the plight of the homeless—have often blurred the lines between commerce and activism, pushing the boundaries of what a brand can stand for. Whether it was his unforgettable “What’s your excuse?” ad campaign or his ongoing commitment to mental health awareness, Cole has made it clear that fashion is not just about style, but about telling stories that matter.
One of the documentary’s strongest elements is its examination of Cole’s relationship with both his brand and his audience. The film deftly explores how the tension between profit and purpose has shaped Cole’s decisions over the years. The notion of “brand relevance” looms large throughout the narrative—how can a business stay true to its ethical commitments in an ever-evolving market without alienating potential customers? A Man With Sole doesn't shy away from addressing these complexities, revealing the sacrifices Cole has made, both professionally and personally, in the pursuit of something greater than mere success.
However, the documentary also raises pertinent questions about the limits of corporate activism. Are these powerful campaigns simply performative, or can they enact real change? The film doesn’t pretend to have all the answers but invites the audience to reflect on the role of consumerism in effecting social change. Cole himself remains a polarizing figure—his passion for social justice is unquestionable, but the film leaves us grappling with the notion of how much influence one man can have when the stakes are so high.
The interviews with colleagues, activists, and those who have worked alongside Cole provide a rich and textured perspective, but it’s Cole himself—both the visionary and the vulnerable figure—that drives this narrative. His dedication to leveraging his position for good is inspiring, but the documentary does not shy away from showing the personal toll such a mission takes. The human cost of constantly fighting for change is laid bare, making the story not only about the impact of Kenneth Cole's business but about the emotional and psychological toll of such an unrelenting pursuit.
Ultimately, A MAN WITH SOLE: The Impact of Kenneth Cole is a testament to the power of fashion as a platform for change. It’s a film about resilience, conviction, and the complexities of modern-day activism. Whether you’re a fan of the brand or not, this documentary provides a nuanced and gripping portrait of a man who has shaped not just the shoe industry, but the cultural conversation surrounding social justice.
Kenneth Cole is more than just a designer or businessman. He’s a man with “sole”—a symbol of how personal ambition and social responsibility can merge to create lasting impact. The question is, can such ideals thrive in an ever-changing, profit-driven world? This documentary doesn’t offer a definitive answer, but it does spark the conversation.
FILM CREDITS:
Director: Dori Berinstein
Producer: Dori Berinstein P.G.A.
Directors of Photography: John Campbell, Dan Fridman, Jerry Risius
Executive Producers: Geralyn White Dreyfous, Regina K. Scully, Ryan Harrington, Elizabeth Armstrong, Jack Lane
Editors: Elisa Bonora ACE BFE, Shannon McCarthy
Composer: Adam Peters
