FilmCouch

Created on 5/7/2007, last active awhile ago.

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FilmCouch #29

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paul
Posts 251

7/20/2007 11:15 AM
posted awhile ago

FilmCouch #29

In the last ten years, movie screens have squashed podiums as the place for politicians to build a voter base. Should old entertainment formulas be used in politics? Do these politi-dramas spur us to action or whining? Under discussion: Sicko (2007), The Party's Over (2000), Network (1976) and the sprawling entity known as Michael Moore.

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Under discussion:

Network (1976)

The Party's Over (2003)

Sicko (2007)

estefanos
Posts 11

7/21/2007 9:03 PM
posted awhile ago

Re: FilmCouch #29

Hey - I'm actually surprised there isn't a discussion going on this topic. You guys brought up a number of salient points which are close to the bone for me. I also have a difficult time deciding how to enter the political process. It is something I've been struggling with for years. For many years I have hidden behind the idea that I am "apolitical". And it is a rational position if you consider thde Sisyphian difficuty of making your voice heard. Why wouldn't one one just throw up their hands? However, I have seen a glimmer of hope in the concept of "acting locally and thinking globally". Also, if you are able, ala Michael Moore and Al Gore, to project your message in an effective (if imperfect) way, it's like, Seize the day!, Strike while the iron is Hot! It doesn't really matter if you are misunderstood by even a majority of the people- you are at least being a catalyst for change and who knows how far it will reach in the long run. So power to the true believers!

estefanos
Posts 11

7/22/2007 9:13 PM
posted awhile ago

Re: FilmCouch #29

Oh well, it's Summer, right? Everyone's on vacation. So I'll respond to myself-

Sounds a bit naieve and idealistic (Typical). Not to mention self-serving. You "

oh I hate politics" types think you have a convenient escape clause, but its just because you've grown up priveleged, American middle-class and don't have to come face to face with the Realities of deprivation starvation war genocide drive-by shootings constant fear for your life that the majority of living humans must face. Your "ooh how can poor little pampered me possibly make a difference " stance sickens me! Get off your passive high horse and get your hands dirty. WORK for justice and stop wringing your callous-free hands!!!

By the bye, I haven't seen the movie yet and I don't have health insurance and I'm a registered nurse.

paul
Posts 251

7/23/2007 12:46 PM
posted awhile ago

Re: FilmCouch #29

Hear, hear estefanos! On both counts. Unfortunately, the majority of concerned people who actually vote in this country are out of touch with the gut-level hardships of poverty. But, as you mentioned in your first more *naive* post, you can think globally and act locally without having to live in the world*s hard hit slums.

I emailed my congressman this week about reforming healthcare and it felt really good.

Paul