Artist Matt Furie, creator of Pepe the Frog, fights to reclaim his cartoon character from those who turned it into a hate symbol. In 2016, amid a divisive election cycle, Pepe went from an innocent meme to a grotesque political tool. He gained notoriety as an icon for school shooters and racists, while simultaneously mocking the public's fear. Powerful figures like Hillary Clinton's condemnation only fueled Pepe's legitimacy. The documentary FEELS GOOD MAN explores this cultural rift and follows Furie's journey to regain control of his creation, encountering peculiar characters along the way. Despite its dark associations, Pepe also transformed into a symbol of hope during the Hong Kong protests. The film offers a compelling portrayal of Furie, Pepe, and the strange reality we inhabit.
How did Pepe the Frog become the symbol of hatred and racism online?
Artist Matt Furie, creator of Pepe the Frog, fights to reclaim his cartoon character from those who turned it into a hate symbol.
In 2016, amid a divisive election cycle, Pepe went from an innocent meme to a grotesque political tool. He gained notoriety as an icon for school shooters and racists, while simultaneously mocking the public's fear. Powerful figures like Hillary Clinton's condemnation only fueled Pepe's legitimacy.
The documentary FEELS GOOD MAN explores this cultural rift and follows Furie's journey to regain control of his creation, encountering peculiar characters along the way. Despite its dark associations, Pepe also transformed into a symbol of hope during the Hong Kong protests. The film offers a compelling portrayal of Furie, Pepe, and the strange reality we inhabit.