As we all know, movies are mostly hypothetical and never attempt to express political views through the use of mass media.....
(cue laugh track)... Your welcome! No need to thank me! I'll be here all week!!
While movies which clearly try and sway public opinion annoy me, those that simply give an accurate account of current events serve a vital purpose towards society. Most people 25 and under do not read the newspaper, and I would wager than most are ignorant to many world events. Their lives are consumed with entertainment, so naturally, as they may be unaware, movies, now more than ever, depict actual events in our world.
A major issue in America in recent years has been the War in Iraq. While most have an opinion, rarely do I hear news pieces about the physical and psychological effects on the soldiers who serve so valiantly in times of war. The Hurt Locker, which won six Academy Awards including Best Picture, gives a realistic account of the war, which can rarely be found in a biased media. Sergeant James has the job of disarming IED's, which is possibly the most dangerous job one can have. The movie leads you through a series of nerve wracking experiences, and does not shy away from shocking you with uncomfortable scenes. Many involve the death of a close friend, only to be on the front lines again the next day. Some show the psychological strain and the intense pain of the ramifications of war. This brings out the emotion in a way words, pictures, and news reports never could.
We need more movies made in this fashion. Factual reenactments serve to bring people into the conditions of the movie, which is exactly what The Hurt Locker does. Even veterans have remarked at how realistic the film is. Hopefully, more movies emerge which give viewers more to think about once they leave the theater.
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