This documentary
written and directed by Michael Moore provides a
striking exposé of American society and the underlying
causes for the violence that is plaguing the nation.
This is the film
that drew an unprecedented 13 minute standing ovation at
the Cannes International Film Festival. Movie audiences
throughout the US have been applauding at the end of the
movie.
But a "fun" movie
it is not. While there are plenty of occasions to laugh
in the movie, a lot of the laughter is of incredulity at
the blatant greed and fear propaganda that seems to run
this country. Michael does not come out and point a
finger to say this one or that one is to blame -- the
viewers are left to draw their own conclusions.
He draws an
interesting comparison with our Canadian neighbors to
the north -- where the nightly news is dedicated to such
"non-thrill" events such as speed bumps and analysis of
political situations -- as opposed to the US where we
are presented with the latest reasons to be afraid and
stay home behind triple-locked doors.
What is different
between the two countries? Why is there so much violence
in the United States? Does Canada have less guns? Not
so. Over half of the households in Canada possess a gun.
Are Canadians less "modern" having less access to
violent movies and video games? Not so. The teens of
Canada are just as hooked on violent video games and
violent movies as in the US. Are Canadians less prone to
anger? Not so. Canadians get angry, but usually resort
to trying to work their differences out, rather than
shooting anyone who gets in their way.
Yes, as "Bowling
for Columbine" goes on to show explicitly, the mentality
is different. The nightly news in the two countries have
different agendas. The politicians, big business and the
NRA have their agendas. Whereas the US is ruled by fear
and competition, Canada seems to be more laid-back and
have a more "friendly" atmosphere within its borders --
more of a "help thy neighbor" attitude, rather than a
"dog eat dog" one.
"Bowling for
Columbine" asks us to rethink our national obsession
with competition and greed. "Bowling for Columbine" asks
us to rethink our attitudes, our lack of trust, our
pervading sense of fear.
"Bowling for
Columbine" is a powerful movie. Shocking perhaps,
thought-provoking certainly, but definitely educational
and eye-opening. It definitely is on my "required
viewing" list for all students and adults in the United
States. Please do go see it!
"Bowling for
Columbine" is currently playing in local movie theatres
across the country. To find a location near you, visit
www.michaelmoore.com
Michael
Moore is also the New York Times
best-selling author of
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