Hollywood Abusers

I don't know if I am more surprised at the accusations of abuse by Hollywood stars or their responses to the accusations.

Obviously, the actions by individuals like Harvey Weinstein are disgusting and completely inappropriate, and abuse, despite its normalization in such a profession field, should be accepted anywhere at anytime. 

However, I feel like the media (and inherently us as consumers and individuals as well) makes a big deal of the story, but forget to act upon it.  Rather, we continue to inflate and saturate the media with such stories and accusations, but fail to truly teach the lesson that sexual, mental, physical, or emotional abuse is wrong.

Yet, despite all the advocacy against abuse and encouraging everyone to stand up against it, Hollywood will forever be tainted by the legacy and symbol of the white male.  Just as VanDerWerff points out, as long as Hollywood and the cinema are influenced by the powerful works and ideas of infamous filmmakers like Alfred Hitchcock, Hollywood will also be lined with makings of abuse and unhealthy sexual voyeurism, as seen with Hitchcock's obsession with actress Tippi Hedren.

VanDerWerff acknowledges that Hollywood is slowly improving, as more and more people are sticking to a "no asshole" rule of sorts.  However, I question if Hollywood will serve as a microcosm for our larger feature picture of life - I hope.

American Veteran reaction

Films like these always leave me speechless.

Regardless of the cause, individuals who have suffered some sort of bodily loss, whether that be physical or mental, and manage to carry on, seeming to be stronger than before, amaze me.

After watching this, I realized all of the small details of every day life that I take advantage of, such as simply getting dressed or eating under my own power.

Despite the macrocosmic, introspective message one can elicit from this film, I believe there's a different message not often discussed.  Nick, the young soldier who was paralyzed from the next down in 2011, specifically iterates that he's surprised that people call him a hero.  He had originally joined the army to get out of Missouri and away from the monotonous work of everyday life and away from his Mom.  He considers himself a wounded veteran, but not a hero by any means.

I think that this idea is a bold and mature one to have, and especially shocking to hear from someone so damaged from their sacrifice.  However, Nick's comments paint his time in the service in almost a selfish light, as if he was only doing this for himself and not his country.  This is an interesting take for the current political climate and hot, controversial opinions on police brutality against minorities and the protesting by notable figures and professional athletes.

Regardless of Nick's opinions of himself, one can watch this movie and understand that no matter what cause, sacrifices have been, and will continue to be made, for the freedom of this country.  It is important that we appreciate to walk through life each new day, because it just may be the last day you get to walk.