Posted on 07/16/2004 3:20:49 PM PDT by vetvetdoug
Farenheit 9/11, R. 5 Stars plus. Lions Gate/IFC documentary directed by Michael Moore; run time -110 minutes
'Farenheit' elicits laughter, crying, thoughtfulness and a desire to learn more in order to get involved. Most of these emotions will depend on the perspective of truth, politics, and beliefs within each individual.
At times, 'Farenheit 9/11" is not easy to watch, but it is even more difficult to stop viewing. It demands firm and honest answers. Many of the issues in the film are addressed in some of the books on the shelves in bookstores today.
This film has had a great deal of publicity and hype. Very few films of recent history have had this kind of exposure. These that do generally do well at the box office. It appears that 'Farenheit 9/11' will not be an exception.
I viewed the film on opening day at 1:15 p.m. and the auditorium was at 85 percent capacity. The audience was very receptive. The applause as the film ended demonstrated the emotional impact it had on viewers.
Michael Moore has had success with "Roger and Me," Bowling for Columbine" and now, " Farenheit 9/11" which won the grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival with a 20 minute standing ovation. The award at Cannes was the Palme d'Or for best film.
In this documentary many unanswered questions are asked. Some of them are very important to the American people.
What are the connections between the Bush Family and the Saudis and the Middle East Oil Industry? Since Cheney has connections at Haliburton, why did the company get so many contracts in Iraq?
Why did President Bush skip his physical exam while serving in the National Guard? Pilots do not miss their physicals.
Why did President Bush take such a long vacation during the first six months of 2001?
These are some of the questions that are addressed within the context of the film. Having read most of these issues in books and news media papers, it becomes apparent there are unanswered questions. Whether one agrees or disagrees, it creates interesting debate over important and timely issues.
"Farenheit 9/11" begins with the election results of 2000. With a brief history of President Bush and his personal and business background, the film moves into the headlines of today.
After the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001, the film follows the pursuit of Osama Bin Laden, Iraq, and the casualties of the war.
One of the most interesting elements of the film was trying to get the Washington legislators to have their sons and daughters enlist in the Armed Services to serve in Iraq. It appears that only one of the legislators has a son serving in Iraq. Most of the men and women serving in Iraq are from low-income families.
This film may or may not sway the American vote. That remains to be seen. However, it is a film that should be seen by all concerned citizens.
No matter how one feels about Michael Moore or the film, it is a very heart-wrenching film that touches the emotions of every person interested in America and its future.
Using actual film footage, it does have a message--just view the film with an open mind and remember, "it is only a movie."
Maybe it will elicit open conversation about the issues and create dialog that will help find solutions to the problems that each and every American confronts in today's world.
It was great to see so many young people at the movie.
All registered citizens should become involved in the affairs of the government and exercise their right to vote and become active in the political process.
This procedure is known as "Democracy," and everyone should participate. Open discussion and healthy debate will help all of us to become better citizens and ultimately a stronger America.
I hope that people will not avoid this film just because they think it is slanted. It has actual news footage that tells much of the story. Take a look at "Farenheit 911" and make up your own mind.
Terry Burns is technology coordinator for the McNairy County School System. A Life long movie buff, his "Film Critic" columns appear Sundays in the T.V. Magazines.
Terry can be contacted by email at burnst@K12.net. His movie grading scale: Five plus stars--as good as it gets; five stars--don't miss; four stars--excellent; three stars--good; two stars--fair; one star--poor; no stars--don't bother.)
And honest answers have been given.
Fraud 'n' hate 911.
Let it die. The film is fading away fast.
My sister saw the movie a couple of weeks ago. It made her angry and now she has registered to vote. When we last talked on the phone, I explained to her that Michael Moore is an ambush journalist who exploits and very often makes light of human misery to line his pockets and further his agenda. I also raised the issue of Lila Lipscomb. I asked my sister "How did Michael Moore know Lila Lipscomb's son was going to die in Iraq? It ain't because he's psychic." I told her what I think happened. I think Moore picked about a dozen women just like Mrs. Lipscomb, hoped and prayed one of them would die and when it turned out to be Lila's son, milked her grief for all its worth.
After we hung up, I could tell my sister was chewing on what I told her.
I do get information from FR, listen to talk radio, and read selected books, so I was able to tell her of our great President. I LOVE PRESIDENT BUSH!
I told her of Kerry.
And of our Troops, otherwise know as Heros.
In reference to MM, can someone give me a few sentences I could have said to counter what she saw in those videos?
Many thanks!
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