KKR’s Henry Kravis gets grilled in short film

“War on Greed Starring Henry Kravis & his homes,” a Robert Greenwald and Bravenew Films production, chronicles the incredible wealth of American investor Henry Kravis, and compares his opulent lifestyle with that of the everyday working man.

Kravis, whom Forbes named the 69th richest person in the world (with an estimated wealth of $5.5 billion), is a co-founder of private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Kravisowns four expansive homes across the world, never sparing a detail of expense in the name of comfort. The film, however, points toward the manner in which Kravis acquires his wealth, which the film says negatively affects thousands of workers via layoffs, decreased medical benefits, and unorthodox business techniques that maximize profit no matter the cost.

Kravis’ lifestyle is contrasted with those of a schoolteacher, a war veteran, and many others in the $30,000-$40,000 annual income range, a statistic that is magnified once the viewer learns that Kravis makes $50,000 every hour, every day.

The short film comes to an emotional ending when it profiles how those middle-class Americans would celebrate the holidays if given the chance to live in one of Kravis’ homes. The overall response is to open the doors to those in need.

As the holiday season is upon us, we here at Haute Living do like to keep in mind that money isn’t everything. And, while we profile the homes, jewelry, and gadgets that only the wealthy can afford, it is always humbling to remember that there are plenty of folks out there in need of help.

Which is why it’s only fair to note that Kravis, despite all his wealth, has always been a major contributor to a variety of causes, from a $15 million donation to Mt. Sinai Medical Center to the New York City Investment Fund, which helps create new jobs in New York.

Via Michael Gross