Sunday 9 August 2020

Review: Playing with FIRE

FIRE is the name given to a sub-group of mostly millennials who are seeking financial independence as early as possible (and then to possibly retire early - or at least have the option of doing so). This documentary follows one early thirty something couple's attempt to follow in their footsteps. 

It's a good overview of the movement, and speaks to all of the leading thinkers and proponents within it. Some are strident and demanding, others more thoughtful.  There's not a huge amount of depth, but perhaps that's to be expected in a feature length documentary on the subject. 

I am a little wary of two emerging trends though.  Bloggers or snake oil salesmen who are supplementing or making most of their income from FIRE related content based on their own experience. That smacks a little of pyramid selling to me. 

For a process about saving money, is is becoming increasingly commodified and commercial. There are now paid courses and camps you can take to become FIRE. Also only a few seemed to have become truly financially independent (but rather had simply set up their own business) or they looked very vulnerable in a downturn. 

As someone who followed a similar path - pre-FIRE movement - to financial independence I wish them all good luck. Some of the mindset changes required are only hinted at here, but it's  good introduction. 

Overall: An intriguing introduction to the FIRE movement. 

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