Unlocking ‘Death & Taxes’: A Must-See Review of Justin Schein’s Masterpiece

For an incredible 10 out of the last 11 years, the renowned DOC NYC festival has showcased the documentary that ultimately captured the coveted Academy Award, establishing itself as a must-visit hub for documentary filmmakers across the nation. Held every November at New York’s IFC Center, this vibrant event saw a record turnout last year, with over 1,000 industry professionals—filmmakers and delegates alike—coming together to celebrate the art of storytelling through the lens of truth.

This month, audiences were treated to the thought-provoking documentary “Death & Taxes,” directed by Justin Schein, a seasoned cinematographer with credits on over 60 films and co-founder of Shadowbox Films. With the political climate heating up as billionaires align with power players like Trump, this film couldn’t be more relevant. It digs deep into the heart of the economic disparities that resonate with the everyday American, especially the working-class supporters who believed the promises of relief from rising costs, only to find themselves sidelined.

“Death & Taxes” presents a compelling dual narrative: it’s both an intimate exploration of the complex father-son relationship and a critical examination of the wealthy elite’s war against estate taxes—deceptively dubbed “death” taxes. The film reveals how the wealthy paint themselves as victims of excessive taxation, arguing that their hard-earned wealth should remain intact for their families rather than be redistributed for the collective good. But here’s the kicker: estate taxes affect only a tiny fraction of the richest Americans, making it a curious cause for the broader populace to rally behind.

Schein masterfully weaves this narrative together with insights from prominent experts like Robert Reich and Paul Krugman, along with a cameo from my daughter, Alissa Quart, who lends her voice to the discourse. They dismantle the arguments against estate taxes, highlighting the essential role taxes play in fostering community welfare. Reich hits hard with the observation that if wealth continues to pass down without any tax obligations, we risk cementing a permanent aristocracy in America. The film doesn’t shy away from utilizing clever animation and Hollywood clips to keep the conversation lively and engaging.

While Schein’s political leanings are evident, he also provides a platform for opposing viewpoints, featuring interviews with Republican strategist Frank Luntz. Luntz argues passionately that estate taxes amount to tax discrimination, advocating for their abolition under the banner of “trickle-down economics”—an idea that echoes the policies of President Ronald Reagan, promoting the notion that wealth will inevitably circulate through philanthropy and consumer spending rather than through a fair tax system.

What sets this film apart, however, isn’t just the intellectual tug-of-war over estate taxes; it’s the deeply personal journey of Justin and his difficult relationship with his father, Harvey. This self-made man, a driven record executive, provides a rich backdrop to the narrative. Raised in a working-class environment in Brooklyn during the Great Depression, Harvey developed a fierce obsession with money management and frugality that marked his family’s life.

While Justin admires Harvey’s accomplishments, he grapples with his father’s volatile nature and controlling tendencies. This larger-than-life figure, who graduated from Harvard Law School, can be both charming and abrasive, creating tension within the family. Amidst Harvey’s focus on financial success, Justin’s mother’s passion for dance goes unnoticed, ultimately contributing to an emotional divide that culminates in their divorce.

In creating this documentary, Justin seeks to unpack his father’s staunch opposition to estate taxes—rooted in a desire for wealth to benefit family over welfare—and to understand his father’s growing political conservatism. Despite enjoying a life of privilege, Justin has always been acutely aware of the stark divide between his affluent world and the struggles of those living nearby in East Harlem. As he supports his father during his battle with cancer, the film closes with a poignant affirmation of the American ideal of equality, contrasting sharply with his father’s narrow worldview that has become even more corrupted under Trump’s reign.

While “Death & Taxes” may not break entirely new ground, it stands as a powerful testament to liberal ideals, inviting viewers to reflect on crucial issues that affect our society today.