Galisteo Media Arts develops Marx documentary 'American Boogeyman'
The production company acquired rights to Andrew Hartman's 2025 book to explore the economist's impact on U.S. policy.
By Harper Collins ·
Galisteo Media Arts has secured the rights to adapt the 2025 book "Karl Marx in America" by historian Andrew Hartman. The company is developing the project as a documentary titled "American Boogeyman: Karl Marx in America." The film will examine the lasting influence of the German philosopher in the United States.
The project addresses a specific contradiction in American history. While Marx's name has been frequently criticized in public life, his ideas have helped shape the nation's political, economic, and cultural debates. Hartman will serve as a key interview subject and adviser on the production.
Robert Rosenheck, CEO and producer at Galisteo, described Marx as a shadowy figure effectively written out of American history. He noted that several modern institutions stem from Marx's influence. These include the eight-hour workday, federal income tax, Social Security, public schools, and women's right to vote.
"People may be surprised to learn how integral they are to the American project," Rosenheck said. The Galisteo Group, founded by Rosenheck and Cindy Capobianco in 2020, focuses on backing projects with social and environmental impact. Recent releases from the company include Tom McCarthy's historical drama "A Statement" and Shaun Peterson's 2024 documentary "Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln."
Galisteo Media Arts is represented by Howie Sanders of Anonymous Content and Alla Savranskaia of Greenberg Glusker LLP.
