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Show Politics and faith drive recent films A look at "Religulous" and "An American Carol" Ann Green StaffWriter Political films leading up to the 2008 presidential election, Religulous and An American Carol, depict issues facing Americans today. Using comedy to offset delicate subject matters, these political films address core values and problems of today s America. "RELIGULOUS" is the attempt to make the point that religion produces a lot of bigotry and stupidity, said Westminster Film StudiesEnglish professor Sean Religulous De-sile- ts. . There is no doubt that Religulous effectively drives home that point. A new documentary film starring political comedian Bill Maher and directed by Larry Charles, Religulous derives its name from the words religion and ridiculous. The title implies the films satirical nature, which mocks society s blind devotion to the religious practices and beliefs of its many different faiths. Religulous documents Maher as he travels around the world in search of understanding. He explores questions on the meaning of faith, the virgin birth and the possibility of life after death. He also raises questions about the influence of faith in shaping the future of the world. As Maher talks about his religious qualms, he seems somber and even sincere. Maher describes himself as a seeker someone who has to find out why believers blindly believe. Im preaching the religion I dont know, he said in the film. Yet, it quickly becomes apparent that Maher is not out to find answers and understanding. Rather, he uses the concepts of religion to foster cheap laughs at his interviewees (the believers) expense. Although the film focuses on cheap laughs, there is a serious side to it. The fact that someone is willing to question religious concepts is bold in itself. But, to point out the problems caused by religion is just crazy. But, I guess that is Mahers point. As he put it, Religion is all about believing some pretty crazy stuff. This film is not for everyone. While I was watching the film, two women walked out disgusted at the films comedic angle to such a serious subject. And, my mom, who tagged alone with me, was disgusted at Mahers blatant disrespect for others beliefs. Other viewers, however, enjoyed Mahers comedic insights and his willingness to question religious beliefs. Its time for someone who has a rational thought to stand up and be heard, said viewer Dave Feolo. Its unfortunate that the people who probably should be seeing this film wont be the ones going to see it. Another viewer said Mahers observations mirrored his own. If most people stepped back from their religion, they would see they are just believing to believe, said viewer Tom Sobczak. Overall, Religulous is 101 minutes of interesting and engaging material that will leave you thinking about why you believe in what you do. "AN AMERICAN CAROL" A film directed by David Zucker and starring Kevin Farley, An American Carol is an outlandish comedy, a satire of the radical left. The film focuses on Michael Malone (played by Far- Hollywood filmmaker whose most recent release, Die, You American Pigs!, is a complete flop. Malone seeks to regain a positive image in the film society by writing a feature film tided Fascist America. Meanwhile, Malone sets out to abolish the Fourth of July. Using the template of The Christmas Carol, Malone is visited by three patriotic spirits before the morning of the Fourth of July protest. They try to install patriotism in Malone by attempting to show him the true meaning of America. By the end of the film, Malone is glad to be an American. I found the film to be boring and dull. Farley s character, Michael Malone, is an imitation of documentary filmmaker Michael Moore. As a main character, Ma ley), an anti-Americ- an lone leaves something to be desired. He is loud, obnoxious a redneck who is constandy stuffing his face or being smacked by someone. But, by the end of the film, I couldnt blame those people whacking Malone in the face. If I couldve I wouldve! The films dialogue was disengaging and the story line dull. I found myself counting down spirits (finally, only one left) as a means of getting through the film. However, the only other people (a family) seeing the film beside me had different opinions. I wanted to show my kids some good things about America, said viewer Dan Liston. People are so down on America, and they shouldnt be. Were so lucky to live here. This film is a good reminder of that. of Classified Ads Talent Needed! Actors, Extras, Models. Get in on fall work now! No classes or upfront fees. Earn$75-$79- 5 daily. 801-438-00- 67. To place an ad in The Forum, contact Zoey Karimzada at or forumbusiness 832-231- 9, e-m- ail westminstercollege.edu. VOLUME XLIi: ISSUE 6 12 NOVEMBER 4, 2008 |