Recently news has come out that Ms. Sheryl Crow has breast cancer. This is a serious matter, and the good news is that after a successful surgery she has an excellent prognosis. The key to her speedy recovery was that the cancer was found in the early stages. I am no expert on this subject, I merely have done research due to my work in prior years as a stock broker and more recently in my capacity for an investor relations firm. Another factor in my knowledge of this subject is that a dear and close friend has recently fought and survived breast cancer.
This is a subject that gets little attention I think. While many individuals and celebrities may wear various ribbons, not everyone understands the scope and effect of this disease. I have known many cancer survivors, my father being one of them [cancer of the tounge and in part of the lymphnodes in the throat]. The fact that one has cancer is shocking, but it is not necessarily life-ending. Often, if found early enough and steps are taken, cancer is survivable. Like with Ms. Sheryl Crow, early detection is what saves lives.
Some facts that everyone should know is that women of all races can get breast cancer. While the incident rates are highest for white women over 40, black women are more likely to have it under 40. Also of note is that Black/African American women are more likely to die from breast cancer without regard to age. Men are not immune from breast cancer either. While the incidence rate is low it does happen. I cannot emphasis enough that early detection is essential as survival rates for white women are 88% and Black African American women are 74%. The key to the difference in survival rates is that many black women find the cancer at a later stage where it is more difficult to fight. The important thing to note is that it can be survived, especially with early detection.
Some noted entertainers that have survived breast cancer may surprise you. They include Ms. Julia Child, Professor June Jordan, Ms. Peggy Fleming, Ms. Patti LaBelle, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Mr. Edward Brooke, Mr. Montel Williams, and of course Ms. Sheryl Crow. These are but a few of the names that exist. Other survivors of cancers are Mr. Harry Belafonte, Mr. Nelson Mandela, Mr. Robert DeNiro, Mr. Colin Powell, Mr. Lance Armstrong, Mr. Merv Griffin, Mr. Michael Milken, Mr. Sidney Poitier, Mr. Jerry Lewis and Mr. George Foreman.
Cancer can affect anyone, man or woman, Black African American or Hispanic or White, in the United States or overseas, young or old, famous entertainers, politicians, fathers and mothers. But it does not prevent full productive and prosperous lives. Like I said this is a subject that hits close to home for me, and many just don’t know the facts. If you have questions, speak to your doctor. The more you know the better you can live. These entertainers, and millions of other regular people prove that everyday.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006
Michael Vass - owner Black Entertainment USA
I want to depart from the normal nature of my posts here on Black Entertainment USA for a moment. I want to thank you, my readers and visitors, for your support of this site. Though still new www.blackentertainmentblog.com has done exceptionally well, growing exponentially. That has only been possible through the positive word of mouth provided by you. I do appreciate that. I also want to thank those that have been moved to comment on various posts, with agreement, dissent and correction, as you are vital to the experience I am trying to convey. Without your thoughts I have no feedback to muse upon, nor the measured approach I try to maintain in expressing my views. I hope that for those of you I have not motivated to comment, I will rise to the cause and reach you as well in time.
As you know I am committed to improving various aspects of this site. My intent is to provide the best presentation and format on the issues and subjects within entertainment, with emphasis on Black African American and Hispanic perspective. This is no simple task. As some of you may know my work entails investor relations and the management of 6 additional sites besides this and www.vasandtheworld.com. No one said being an entrepreneur was easy. Besides time, money is an inescapable factor for the growth of this site in the manner I wish it to be.
I appreciate those that have visited the multiple product pages on this site, which include the Catalogue main page, Gift items for Her and Him, especially when those visits resulted in purchases from my www.CafePress.com/nova68 store. If you have not had the chance please do visit those sections sometime. I have also paid attention to those that have asked for better models, and more diversity, of the t-shirts, baseball cap, mouse pad, journal and other items. I am working on improvements and additional items as we speak. If you have any requests or suggestions of items I can provide, please look here to contact me.
One new item I have added is an audio section. I will be working on finishing the look and layout of this section but like my original poetry, which can be found on some of the above mentioned inscribed goods, My audio section provides my voice reading the poems I have created. While not a perfect audio, it hopefully will add flavor and inspiration to you my reader.
I mention all of the above because it is my goal to provide many of the things that I feel are missing from many site targeted at African Americans, Hispanics and other minorities. While I would enjoy huge sales and large profits from various goods, I prefer to target items that reflect in some way my views and thoughts. They are an icing on the cake, the content being just that - the true substance of this site. But as I stated, money is necessary for everything. I hope to limit, significantly, the number of sites that will be able to advertise on this site. I have several options before me, but I am open as always to suggestions that you my reader may prefer. Are there specific sites you would like to see advertise here (if I must add any)?
I thank you for your patronage, and thoughts. Now back to the entertainers and the real posts.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
As you know I am committed to improving various aspects of this site. My intent is to provide the best presentation and format on the issues and subjects within entertainment, with emphasis on Black African American and Hispanic perspective. This is no simple task. As some of you may know my work entails investor relations and the management of 6 additional sites besides this and www.vasandtheworld.com. No one said being an entrepreneur was easy. Besides time, money is an inescapable factor for the growth of this site in the manner I wish it to be.
I appreciate those that have visited the multiple product pages on this site, which include the Catalogue main page, Gift items for Her and Him, especially when those visits resulted in purchases from my www.CafePress.com/nova68 store. If you have not had the chance please do visit those sections sometime. I have also paid attention to those that have asked for better models, and more diversity, of the t-shirts, baseball cap, mouse pad, journal and other items. I am working on improvements and additional items as we speak. If you have any requests or suggestions of items I can provide, please look here to contact me.
One new item I have added is an audio section. I will be working on finishing the look and layout of this section but like my original poetry, which can be found on some of the above mentioned inscribed goods, My audio section provides my voice reading the poems I have created. While not a perfect audio, it hopefully will add flavor and inspiration to you my reader.
I mention all of the above because it is my goal to provide many of the things that I feel are missing from many site targeted at African Americans, Hispanics and other minorities. While I would enjoy huge sales and large profits from various goods, I prefer to target items that reflect in some way my views and thoughts. They are an icing on the cake, the content being just that - the true substance of this site. But as I stated, money is necessary for everything. I hope to limit, significantly, the number of sites that will be able to advertise on this site. I have several options before me, but I am open as always to suggestions that you my reader may prefer. Are there specific sites you would like to see advertise here (if I must add any)?
I thank you for your patronage, and thoughts. Now back to the entertainers and the real posts.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
Sunday, February 26, 2006
50 cent and Anna Nicole Smith
[this post was moved from An award, ice, a role-model and strippers for search engine reasons. No other alteration to the post has occured.]
Continuing this theme of ‘Why do I need to know this’ I fall upon a recent statement by 50 Cent
[Ok here is a pet peeve of mine. What happened to the s? The word is cents, not a difficult word. I presume that the rapper has had enough education to know the proper spelling of this word. I could be wrong. Even if the word is supposed to be 50% where is the per? It just annoys me the way the American English language is abused for profit, encouraging misuse by those who do not profit but believe that it must be ok since rich entertainers do it. See my thoughts on NBA about role models.] on Eminem. First, what change does this make in ANYONE’S life? Why is this considered news? Secondly, Eminem is hardly a gold standard to follow. Eminem failed 9th grade three times and dropped out of high school. He has made millions attacking his mother and then ex-wife on various recordings. He received 2 years probation on a concealed weapons charge [shall we say slap on the wrist], was sued for defamation, and is often noted for his apparent homophobia (performing on stage with a gay man is a marketing gimmick not a statement about personal thoughts) and misogyny as expressed by his music. The last 2 items, and possibly the legal charges, are of course positives when rappers are concerned. But to be considered a role model seems hardly credible. While I cannot deny that some of the work by Eminem shows talent few in this sector of the entertainment industry have, that is not very hard in my opinion. To have marginal competence does not make you Einstein because you are compared against large numbers of incompetents, as an example. If Eminem is the highlight of what rappers should be like, then in most every aspect I’d have to be very sad for the outlook of an already felon-glutted, low-talent entertainment. Obviously 50 cent and I have severely different outlooks.
Lastly, since we are considering a way to look at things, I’m reminded that Ms. Anna Nicole Smith will soon be able to present her case before the U.S. Supreme Court. While not the typical “rags-to-riches” scenario,
I am sure some (referred to colloquially in the Black African American culture at least as golddiddgers) may find this inspiring. I am amazed at the greed that is on display. Without regard for the feelings that Ms. Smith and her late husband shared, the various legal battles for his estate are less than virtuous at least in appearance. The press coverage of this case will no doubt be a standout. The big question of course is what precedent will be set by this case. And how much wealth can be shared by those in an inheritance. Keep dad away from those strippers or else.
Continuing this theme of ‘Why do I need to know this’ I fall upon a recent statement by 50 Cent
[Ok here is a pet peeve of mine. What happened to the s? The word is cents, not a difficult word. I presume that the rapper has had enough education to know the proper spelling of this word. I could be wrong. Even if the word is supposed to be 50% where is the per? It just annoys me the way the American English language is abused for profit, encouraging misuse by those who do not profit but believe that it must be ok since rich entertainers do it. See my thoughts on NBA about role models.] on Eminem. First, what change does this make in ANYONE’S life? Why is this considered news? Secondly, Eminem is hardly a gold standard to follow. Eminem failed 9th grade three times and dropped out of high school. He has made millions attacking his mother and then ex-wife on various recordings. He received 2 years probation on a concealed weapons charge [shall we say slap on the wrist], was sued for defamation, and is often noted for his apparent homophobia (performing on stage with a gay man is a marketing gimmick not a statement about personal thoughts) and misogyny as expressed by his music. The last 2 items, and possibly the legal charges, are of course positives when rappers are concerned. But to be considered a role model seems hardly credible. While I cannot deny that some of the work by Eminem shows talent few in this sector of the entertainment industry have, that is not very hard in my opinion. To have marginal competence does not make you Einstein because you are compared against large numbers of incompetents, as an example. If Eminem is the highlight of what rappers should be like, then in most every aspect I’d have to be very sad for the outlook of an already felon-glutted, low-talent entertainment. Obviously 50 cent and I have severely different outlooks.Lastly, since we are considering a way to look at things, I’m reminded that Ms. Anna Nicole Smith will soon be able to present her case before the U.S. Supreme Court. While not the typical “rags-to-riches” scenario,
I am sure some (referred to colloquially in the Black African American culture at least as golddiddgers) may find this inspiring. I am amazed at the greed that is on display. Without regard for the feelings that Ms. Smith and her late husband shared, the various legal battles for his estate are less than virtuous at least in appearance. The press coverage of this case will no doubt be a standout. The big question of course is what precedent will be set by this case. And how much wealth can be shared by those in an inheritance. Keep dad away from those strippers or else.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
An award, ice, a role-model and strippers.
Now that the Olympic snubs have passed, and hopefully some have learned the meaning of sportsmanship [see my post Olympic sideshow diminishes USA] I can get back to other thoughts that have caught my attention. I want to mention that I think its about time that further acknowledgment of the ability that Mr. Morgan Freeman possesses. I have spoken about Mr. Freeman in other posts [My list of entertainers and entertainment for 2005, History in America] and am glad to mention him again. Mr. Freeman will be receiving the Spencer Tracy Award, an award shared by past honoree’s that include Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Tom Hanks and Mr. James 'Jimmy' Stewart. I will say again that I find Mr. Freeman an inspiration on many levels and young Black African American men should look to him as an inspiration (though Mr. Washington and Mr. Jaime Foxx are equally of note).
Speaking of inspiration, and talent, Mr. John Leguizamo (another favorite of mine, and Hispanic as a bonus, Viva Puerto Rico, whepa! [I have been corrected in that Mr. Leguizamo is part Puerto Rican and Columbian. I apologize for not recognizing his full heritage]) will be opening an ice park in Alaska shortly. This is a truly a sight to see as sculptures, made of ice, are on display and competition. While I have never had the chance to see such a competition in person, the photographs I have seem are beautiful. The skill of the ice sculptors is to be commended. I cannot fathom how to create a 30 foot tall work of art from a block of ice, I do not have such an imagination, but those that can deserve the increased recognition a star such as Mr. Leguizamo brings to the event.
Of course from such inspiration we fall to what seems the monthly barrage of celebrity sex tapes. I just don’t understand the drive that seems to exist here. Perhaps the fact that I was never obsessed with the need to have a poster of anyone ever makes me the extreme here. Be that as it may, why do entertainers constantly have sex tapes of themselves randomly appearing without their consent. Now I realize that nobody ever buys or sees any pornography. It just happens to be the first, most successful business on the internet and sales for XXX films in 2005 exceeded ALL of Hollywood’s sales for 2005 by 41.6% or $3.7 billion. But given this ‘fact’ and that the ultra-conservative nature of the ‘average’ American (as stated by various minority religious groups) is so offended by 5 seconds of naked cleavage (or was it because it was a Black African American woman’s cleavage?) Why do these tapes keep cropping up? And why is it that consistently these tapes involve 2nd or 3rd tier entertainers? It seems suspicious that an entertainer that has not been in the news for an extended period of time “suddenly” has a sex tape appear that dates back to a time when they were popular, and they must protect their image by blocking the sale of said tape. Falling into this category are Paris Hilton, Tommy Lee, Bret Michaels and now Kid Rock among others. Now I can understand trying to protect children of these entertainers from these tapes, but if such a need exists wouldn’t you think that there would be just a bit of precaution used in safeguarding these tapes? If these ‘saintly’ entertainers were so image conscious wouldn’t they think that ‘this could come back one day and be a problem?’ Obviously extreme exposure, and pornography, have had negative consequences for some entertainers in the past. The fact that it is becoming so commonplace as to almost be a marketing technique is disturbing. I know sex sells, but is it too much to ask that we let the professionals do it for the mysterious ‘couldn’t be me’ purchasers of porno’s, and whatever a person chooses to do in private stays that way?
Oh, I can't leave out a last thought. How bad should you feel when your name is the term used by pedophiles to describe their sick acts? If you happen to be R Kelly you may agree with them. I can't say that this singer is a pedophile, but it would seem that the (yes yet another) sex tape implies a man very much like him in the least. The net effect is that black culture has created a slang out of his name. This story was the first I've ever heard of it though (the slang). The upsetting things for me are: 1) If this singer is the one on the tape, he needs to be locked up and nuetered. 2) Why does the black community as a whole continue to support this singer with such an allegation over his head. This is a serious subject and it needs to be resolved. Anyone like the figure in the tape needs to be punished, severely. The mere hint that this entertainer could be him is enough for me to say that some reprimand need be done so actual pedophiles do not create a hero for themselves, as this case seems to imply has happened. Is my solution harsh, yes. Is it unfair, only if the person is innocent. But I beleive that the safety of children is more important. If you can think of a better idea, say it.
[a minor edit was needed for search engine reasosn. I have taken a portion of this post and placed it in its own post. No other alteration has been done.]
This is what I think, what do you think.
Speaking of inspiration, and talent, Mr. John Leguizamo (another favorite of mine, and Hispanic as a bonus, Viva Puerto Rico, whepa! [I have been corrected in that Mr. Leguizamo is part Puerto Rican and Columbian. I apologize for not recognizing his full heritage]) will be opening an ice park in Alaska shortly. This is a truly a sight to see as sculptures, made of ice, are on display and competition. While I have never had the chance to see such a competition in person, the photographs I have seem are beautiful. The skill of the ice sculptors is to be commended. I cannot fathom how to create a 30 foot tall work of art from a block of ice, I do not have such an imagination, but those that can deserve the increased recognition a star such as Mr. Leguizamo brings to the event.
Of course from such inspiration we fall to what seems the monthly barrage of celebrity sex tapes. I just don’t understand the drive that seems to exist here. Perhaps the fact that I was never obsessed with the need to have a poster of anyone ever makes me the extreme here. Be that as it may, why do entertainers constantly have sex tapes of themselves randomly appearing without their consent. Now I realize that nobody ever buys or sees any pornography. It just happens to be the first, most successful business on the internet and sales for XXX films in 2005 exceeded ALL of Hollywood’s sales for 2005 by 41.6% or $3.7 billion. But given this ‘fact’ and that the ultra-conservative nature of the ‘average’ American (as stated by various minority religious groups) is so offended by 5 seconds of naked cleavage (or was it because it was a Black African American woman’s cleavage?) Why do these tapes keep cropping up? And why is it that consistently these tapes involve 2nd or 3rd tier entertainers? It seems suspicious that an entertainer that has not been in the news for an extended period of time “suddenly” has a sex tape appear that dates back to a time when they were popular, and they must protect their image by blocking the sale of said tape. Falling into this category are Paris Hilton, Tommy Lee, Bret Michaels and now Kid Rock among others. Now I can understand trying to protect children of these entertainers from these tapes, but if such a need exists wouldn’t you think that there would be just a bit of precaution used in safeguarding these tapes? If these ‘saintly’ entertainers were so image conscious wouldn’t they think that ‘this could come back one day and be a problem?’ Obviously extreme exposure, and pornography, have had negative consequences for some entertainers in the past. The fact that it is becoming so commonplace as to almost be a marketing technique is disturbing. I know sex sells, but is it too much to ask that we let the professionals do it for the mysterious ‘couldn’t be me’ purchasers of porno’s, and whatever a person chooses to do in private stays that way?
Oh, I can't leave out a last thought. How bad should you feel when your name is the term used by pedophiles to describe their sick acts? If you happen to be R Kelly you may agree with them. I can't say that this singer is a pedophile, but it would seem that the (yes yet another) sex tape implies a man very much like him in the least. The net effect is that black culture has created a slang out of his name. This story was the first I've ever heard of it though (the slang). The upsetting things for me are: 1) If this singer is the one on the tape, he needs to be locked up and nuetered. 2) Why does the black community as a whole continue to support this singer with such an allegation over his head. This is a serious subject and it needs to be resolved. Anyone like the figure in the tape needs to be punished, severely. The mere hint that this entertainer could be him is enough for me to say that some reprimand need be done so actual pedophiles do not create a hero for themselves, as this case seems to imply has happened. Is my solution harsh, yes. Is it unfair, only if the person is innocent. But I beleive that the safety of children is more important. If you can think of a better idea, say it.
[a minor edit was needed for search engine reasosn. I have taken a portion of this post and placed it in its own post. No other alteration has been done.]
This is what I think, what do you think.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Olympic sideshow diminishes USA
Back from a business trip and what do I find? The Winter Olympics. Not the first subject I was planning on discussing, I only occasionally watch the luge or bobsled events, everything else is rather boring to me. I don’t know of any friends that watch the winter Olympics (excepting the same events) either, for the same reason. Be that as it may, this year has had one skater, Ms. Michelle Kwan drop out and the U.S. hockey team took the bronze. Still not worth talking about in my book. This in no way is meant to reflect the abilities and dedication of these athletes. They are part of the best in the world, and win or lose they deserve both recognition and respect. I just like the gymnastics events a little more. I do mean a little.
So why am I prattling on with all of this. Something did happen that is worth speaking about. Sadly its not a positive thing. The Olympics is about national pride and personal achievement. It is about respect for your competitors and sportsmanship. It is an opportunity to be recognized and give your nation bragging rights. It should never be about petty bickering, unsportsmanlike conduct and the projection of national in-fighting.
I am referring to the Davis-Hedrick back and forth. For those like me who don’t follow this, both men are speed skaters. Mr. Shani Davis has trained at this since the age of 6 as I understand. Mr. Davis is from Chicago, and recently became the 1st Black African American to win an individual gold medal in the Winter Olympics. Mr. Chad Hedrick is a former in-line skater that started to do speed skating in 2002, and is from Texas. Mr. Hedrick won the gold for the 5000 meters. It is apparent that neither likes the other.
After Mr. Hedrick won the 5000 he was congratulated by Mr. Davis. When Mr. Davis won for the 1000 meters the reciprocal was not true. Many, I would imagine, would find this to be rude. Even moreso because this is another comrade of your nation, and the nation prospers when an individual does. But because there is a team event, that apparently is not a requirement to be in and had not previously been discussed, Mr. Hedrick was highly offended when Mr. Davis declined to enter, as was his right. Due to that, and the American team of that event winning a silver medal, the snub for the 1000 meters occurred.
Are we all caught up? Ok, while the Olympics are supposed to be about the individual athletes primarily and nations in the secondary it is not the fact. Nations use the Olympics as a tool for obscure machinations in geo-political one-upmanship. In the U.S. the national gold medal count is more important than any of the athletes, or why were so many people upset that Ms. Michelle Kwan pulled out due to a groin injury? The fact that a high gold count and international bragging rights for a nation for 4 years get a lot of media attention has not escaped business. While Olympic athletes can’t get paid beforehand, after winning a few medals in a good national showing they can rake in the sponsor cash. So much for purity of the game. This too was not lost on Mr. Hedrick, or so one would assume from his statement about the future, “to get into some acting in Hollywood pretty soon.” It may also explain his statement that, “Once Shani beat me, I didn't care if I got a bronze. I'm here to win. It's all or nothing," even though national pride, and general sportsmanship, would suggest that providing your best without regard for reward should be the only motivation needed.
For me, anyone who is in any form of entertainment for personal wealth, fame and other gain diminishes my respect for them and removes any enjoyment I get from that entertainment whether it be sports, music acting or anything else. Mr. Muhammad Ali is the greatest NOT because of his desire for money. Mr. Michael Jordan is renown because of his love of the game and NOT his business acumen. Mr. Tiger Woods is respected due to his motivation to be the best, Not his ability to be paid well for what he does. These and other entertainers that are fondly remembered by not only the United States but the world are so due to their commitment to be the best at what they do. Mr. Hedrick’s statements do little to impress me.
The actions of snubbing a fellow athlete in accomplishing the immensely difficult task of winning a gold medal is inexcusable to me. The fact that an athlete picked to represent the nation would do anything but their best is insulting. It defeats the reason for being in a competition of such high honor, to me. The implication that money is the ultimate goal and motivation for an athlete on this level is disturbing to me. Perhaps this is not the intent of Mr. Hedrick’s words but they are how I interpret them. His actions are directly understood in only one way, and deserve reproach if I were to judge them. The example Mr. Hedrick sets for children watching his lead is NOT what the Olympics is mean to showcase, nor what they symbolize.
Lest we forget, the Olympics are meant to commemorate the SELFLESS DEDICATION a Greek runner displayed in racing from Marathon to Athens to alert the Greeks of an impending attack. The speed he achieved and importance of his message was matched by the cost which was his life, as he died after delivering the message. That is the Olympics to me. Dedication to do the best, for the individual and nation. Some might call that romantic delusion, I say it’s the least we should expect.
I hope the corporations and Hollywood execs think of that when Mr. Hedrick shows up looking to get fame and wealth, as he has implied he might. And a hearty cheer to Mr. Davis for standing up and reminding those that have forgotten what national spirit and sportsmanship represent.
This is what I think, what do you think.
So why am I prattling on with all of this. Something did happen that is worth speaking about. Sadly its not a positive thing. The Olympics is about national pride and personal achievement. It is about respect for your competitors and sportsmanship. It is an opportunity to be recognized and give your nation bragging rights. It should never be about petty bickering, unsportsmanlike conduct and the projection of national in-fighting.
I am referring to the Davis-Hedrick back and forth. For those like me who don’t follow this, both men are speed skaters. Mr. Shani Davis has trained at this since the age of 6 as I understand. Mr. Davis is from Chicago, and recently became the 1st Black African American to win an individual gold medal in the Winter Olympics. Mr. Chad Hedrick is a former in-line skater that started to do speed skating in 2002, and is from Texas. Mr. Hedrick won the gold for the 5000 meters. It is apparent that neither likes the other.
After Mr. Hedrick won the 5000 he was congratulated by Mr. Davis. When Mr. Davis won for the 1000 meters the reciprocal was not true. Many, I would imagine, would find this to be rude. Even moreso because this is another comrade of your nation, and the nation prospers when an individual does. But because there is a team event, that apparently is not a requirement to be in and had not previously been discussed, Mr. Hedrick was highly offended when Mr. Davis declined to enter, as was his right. Due to that, and the American team of that event winning a silver medal, the snub for the 1000 meters occurred.
Are we all caught up? Ok, while the Olympics are supposed to be about the individual athletes primarily and nations in the secondary it is not the fact. Nations use the Olympics as a tool for obscure machinations in geo-political one-upmanship. In the U.S. the national gold medal count is more important than any of the athletes, or why were so many people upset that Ms. Michelle Kwan pulled out due to a groin injury? The fact that a high gold count and international bragging rights for a nation for 4 years get a lot of media attention has not escaped business. While Olympic athletes can’t get paid beforehand, after winning a few medals in a good national showing they can rake in the sponsor cash. So much for purity of the game. This too was not lost on Mr. Hedrick, or so one would assume from his statement about the future, “to get into some acting in Hollywood pretty soon.” It may also explain his statement that, “Once Shani beat me, I didn't care if I got a bronze. I'm here to win. It's all or nothing," even though national pride, and general sportsmanship, would suggest that providing your best without regard for reward should be the only motivation needed.
For me, anyone who is in any form of entertainment for personal wealth, fame and other gain diminishes my respect for them and removes any enjoyment I get from that entertainment whether it be sports, music acting or anything else. Mr. Muhammad Ali is the greatest NOT because of his desire for money. Mr. Michael Jordan is renown because of his love of the game and NOT his business acumen. Mr. Tiger Woods is respected due to his motivation to be the best, Not his ability to be paid well for what he does. These and other entertainers that are fondly remembered by not only the United States but the world are so due to their commitment to be the best at what they do. Mr. Hedrick’s statements do little to impress me.
The actions of snubbing a fellow athlete in accomplishing the immensely difficult task of winning a gold medal is inexcusable to me. The fact that an athlete picked to represent the nation would do anything but their best is insulting. It defeats the reason for being in a competition of such high honor, to me. The implication that money is the ultimate goal and motivation for an athlete on this level is disturbing to me. Perhaps this is not the intent of Mr. Hedrick’s words but they are how I interpret them. His actions are directly understood in only one way, and deserve reproach if I were to judge them. The example Mr. Hedrick sets for children watching his lead is NOT what the Olympics is mean to showcase, nor what they symbolize.
Lest we forget, the Olympics are meant to commemorate the SELFLESS DEDICATION a Greek runner displayed in racing from Marathon to Athens to alert the Greeks of an impending attack. The speed he achieved and importance of his message was matched by the cost which was his life, as he died after delivering the message. That is the Olympics to me. Dedication to do the best, for the individual and nation. Some might call that romantic delusion, I say it’s the least we should expect.
I hope the corporations and Hollywood execs think of that when Mr. Hedrick shows up looking to get fame and wealth, as he has implied he might. And a hearty cheer to Mr. Davis for standing up and reminding those that have forgotten what national spirit and sportsmanship represent.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Quick words on flirting and procreation
With Valentine's day just passed [my thanks to those that purchased some of my inscribed poetry and other gift items] I wanted to go back and mention something. We need more social darwinism I think. You might ask what this has to do with black entertainment, or the entertainment industry at all. The answer is everything, in a way.
In every venue of entertainment sex, sensuality and competition reign. Football, as an example, is a declaration of the fitness of a male as opposed to the other players. Physique and ability provide oppourtunities for a man to show a potential mate that his gene set is worthy of reproduction. In music, the accents are more on the mental attributes. The ability to dominate peers and sway masses. Acting is more subtle. Acting combines mental discipline, the ability to adapt, creativity and varying degrees of facial/physical attractiveness. In each case the qualities presented are to exemplify the worthiness of procreation. Procreating is the best, most common, absolutely most active form of entertainment. Anywhere at anytime, at least to my understanding - correct me if I am wrong.
That said, while the drive to procreate may be instinctual, so is the selection process. Which brings me to flirting. [stay with me, I'm getting there] The ability to flirt and notice someone flirting in ingrained in us. It is as primal as breathing. Nature rewards those who are better at it than others. [thus the darwinism] Those who are bad at it have fewer chances to breed and thus their genes are removed from the human species pool, allowing for better future humans. (its entertainment the entire world can understand and do, and its beneficial to Mankind - isn't that great)
Yet some people want to mess with nature. To quote and old stock brokerage industry saying, they "are trying to reinvent the wheel." I couldn't believe it, but there are actually schools to give lessons in flirting ettiquette. Now that is insane. I mean its one thing to have different approaches but lets 'be real'. Even a study by the Czech Republic Labour Ministry realizes "Conversations with hidden erotic meaning, provacative allusions and even rude stories are all part of what makes the world go round."
If someone can't figure that out, they don't need a class... they need to be removed from the gene pool. Nature has identified something about their genetic make-up that just should not continue. Helping these people just hurts Mankind, in the long run.
This is what I think, what do you think?
In every venue of entertainment sex, sensuality and competition reign. Football, as an example, is a declaration of the fitness of a male as opposed to the other players. Physique and ability provide oppourtunities for a man to show a potential mate that his gene set is worthy of reproduction. In music, the accents are more on the mental attributes. The ability to dominate peers and sway masses. Acting is more subtle. Acting combines mental discipline, the ability to adapt, creativity and varying degrees of facial/physical attractiveness. In each case the qualities presented are to exemplify the worthiness of procreation. Procreating is the best, most common, absolutely most active form of entertainment. Anywhere at anytime, at least to my understanding - correct me if I am wrong.
That said, while the drive to procreate may be instinctual, so is the selection process. Which brings me to flirting. [stay with me, I'm getting there] The ability to flirt and notice someone flirting in ingrained in us. It is as primal as breathing. Nature rewards those who are better at it than others. [thus the darwinism] Those who are bad at it have fewer chances to breed and thus their genes are removed from the human species pool, allowing for better future humans. (its entertainment the entire world can understand and do, and its beneficial to Mankind - isn't that great)
Yet some people want to mess with nature. To quote and old stock brokerage industry saying, they "are trying to reinvent the wheel." I couldn't believe it, but there are actually schools to give lessons in flirting ettiquette. Now that is insane. I mean its one thing to have different approaches but lets 'be real'. Even a study by the Czech Republic Labour Ministry realizes "Conversations with hidden erotic meaning, provacative allusions and even rude stories are all part of what makes the world go round."
If someone can't figure that out, they don't need a class... they need to be removed from the gene pool. Nature has identified something about their genetic make-up that just should not continue. Helping these people just hurts Mankind, in the long run.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Sunday, February 12, 2006
What Dave Chappelle and James Lipton gave me
[This will appear on both of my sites, http://vasandtheworld.blogspot.com and www.blackentertainmentblog.com , with modifications for search engine reasons only.]
I just finished watching Inside the Actor’s Studio on Bravo. I want to thank Mr. James Lipton and Mr. Dave Chappelle. It was quite the television show. I like to watch the program regularly, and find many of the insights and revelations of the various entertainers to be compelling. Often the experiences and tragedies are similar to those I and some of my friends have experienced and it helps to remind me that every entertainer, White, Black African Amercian Hispanic or whatever is just a person like me. This episode though was different.
In this episode A LOT of what Mr. Dave Chappelle said hit home and had me thinking. Thinking hard. Normally I have found some of Mr. Chappelle’s work to be amusing and a bit of it insulting, the rest just didn’t grab me. That is no reflection on his talent though, just my tastes. Which is the first thing that crossed my mind after the program. I have been told by many over the years that I am an elitist intellectual and arrogant. I have always known to some degree that this is true. But what I failed to see is where that has left me blind. Mr. Chappelle explained the depth of a joke that he did in his HBO special. The parts that were true and the parts that were exaggerated. I hadn’t realized that stepping back from the humor of the joke it was an experience that I had several times in my life, and probably will again when I go back to the Bronx. The message was so subliminal and subtle I had missed it, and I’m sure many others missed it to. But for those that didn’t and had never had that experience it must have been quite telling I now realize. And in that I think I can see why Mr. Richard Pryor felt that Mr. Chappelle is his successor.
I have often looked at the comedy of Mr. Dave Chappelle as being often too lowbrow for my taste. I’m sure I may feel that way in the future as well, but perhaps I will take the time to examine that lowbrow joke a bit more carefully in the future. My arrogance hid the meaning and I find it shocking as I value my intellect and analytical prowess above most any other skill or gift I have. For that oversight I must apologize to Mr. Chappelle for I have severely underestimated him.
I must also admit my surprise in something that Mr. Lipton recognized that I took for granted. It’s something so simple in my life, and that of many of my friends (particularly those of Black African American, and Hispanic heritage) that I never really thought about it. It’s the way I speak. I have long held, as many academics have said, that words are the reflection of thought. Spoken or written, words and language are powerful tools. I have spoken to many younger people and others in my own age range that have not had the chance to prosper or travel as I have, and invariably I have said that the more words you know, the more you can convey the precise thought you have to any other human, and that ability is power. I absolutely stand by this thought as it is something that to my knowledge no individual who has attained power (wealth and status going with that power) has failed to have. Yet Mr. Lipton found the loophole, or Achilles Heel in this thought. Mr. Chappelle, Mr. Martin Lawrence and many others, famous (black/hispanic entertainers) and unknown (including myself) that are Black African American share the ability to split our speech to accommodate our surroundings. As Mr. Chappelle explained there is the ‘interview language’ and then there is the more relaxed ‘street’ language. I hadn’t realized that this was the case with the black comedians, or actually any comedian (especially those who are Black African American and/or Hispanic).
While my speech patterns are more formal, and probably considered closer to ‘High English’, when I am in a direct business setting I am sure they are almost exactly ‘High English'. That means that I, like probably all Black African Americans are of 2 minds. You can see it most clearly in the black entertainers. Mr. Eddie Murphy, Mr. Pryor, everyone that has affected a ‘white’ or more correctly proper American English speech pattern. While done mockingly it shows a deeply seated division in thought. It also implies a self-imposed restriction in thought outside of a ‘business’ environment, if my supposition about thought and words is correct. If I am correct then what does the use of a more restrictive and less expansive pool of words mean about the way I think? As I said before, there is no power without thought as express via words and language. It is something I had not considered before.
I should note that I do not mean to imply that speaking like a Rhode’s scholar is the only way to express intelligence. I do imply that I am unaware of a Rhode’s scholar that is of such a dual mind as I mentioned above. I have mentioned in comments that I look forward to one day being able to ‘interview’ (more accurately would be to ask some questions and understand more fully) Ice Cube. I would also like to speak with Mr. Robert Duvall, Mr. Kadeem Hardison, Mr. Morgan Freeman, Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. John Travola, Mr. Johnny Depp and several others. I think that given the chance to speak to any of these and other entertainers it will be a question and an item to probe with them. I feel that this is definitely a question that anyone especially the youth of today need to delve into for themselves.
Another item that Mr. Dave Chappelle mentioned that struck a chord in me, is the dismissive nature that can come to those that write or discuss individuals we don’t know. On a more personal basis I guess it could be called ‘talking behind someone’s back’. On the level of an entertainer, especially in America I believe, it might be called speculation, rumors, or news. The prime example is Mr. Chappelle when he went to Africa. Because he walked away from the show, and possibly a $50 million dollar contract, speculation rumors and news stated that Mr. Chappelle had a crack addiction, was mentally ill, and/or worse. The fact that he had walked away from the show 2 times in the year prior never came up in any announcement. Were it not for the contract and its size we may not have heard of this one. And to assume, conjecture, and/or blatantly accuse a person of an act - or worse yet to dismiss them with accusations of mental enfeeblement or illness - publicly and without regard for their family and children is wrong. I have not reread every post I have made in a while, but I can recall portions of some of the posts I have made - especially when the post was on a topic I feel strongly about. While I will always support my beliefs and opinions, until such a time as a debate provides enough proof contrary or instills enough credible doubt to justify a rethinking of my position (I am fallible of course), I have always tried to restrict my outrage or frustration at the subject and not the person. In some cases the person though is the subject. I wish I could say that I have been, or will in the future be, even-handed in my exposition. I know I have not. I am not omniscient and many of whom I discuss have been in situations I may never be in. I am wrong to brazenly dismiss their convictions or actions. I do an injustice to their family and children when I paint such a broad stroke, and no one has such a right. For that I apologize. I am man enough to admit that I have done these things and may do so again in the future, and I am definitely man enough to stand here and admit that it is wrong.
There are many things in the interview Mr. James Lipton and Mr. Dave Chappelle shared that I must delve into. The consequences of this reflection I cannot say. I cannot fully fathom the breadth of where this will lead me. But focused introspection is never a bad thing in my mind. Knowing your flaws and weaknesses is a key to becoming stronger overall. As Sun-Tzu states in the Art of War (this is from the translation by Mr. Ralph D. Sawyer): Initial Estimations - “Before the engagement, one who determines in the ancestral temple that he will be victorious has found that the majority of factors are in his favor. Before the engagement one who determines in the ancestral temple that he will not be victorious has found few factors in his favor....” and, “If I observe it from this perspective, victory and defeat will be apparent.”
This is what I think, what do you think?
I just finished watching Inside the Actor’s Studio on Bravo. I want to thank Mr. James Lipton and Mr. Dave Chappelle. It was quite the television show. I like to watch the program regularly, and find many of the insights and revelations of the various entertainers to be compelling. Often the experiences and tragedies are similar to those I and some of my friends have experienced and it helps to remind me that every entertainer, White, Black African Amercian Hispanic or whatever is just a person like me. This episode though was different.
In this episode A LOT of what Mr. Dave Chappelle said hit home and had me thinking. Thinking hard. Normally I have found some of Mr. Chappelle’s work to be amusing and a bit of it insulting, the rest just didn’t grab me. That is no reflection on his talent though, just my tastes. Which is the first thing that crossed my mind after the program. I have been told by many over the years that I am an elitist intellectual and arrogant. I have always known to some degree that this is true. But what I failed to see is where that has left me blind. Mr. Chappelle explained the depth of a joke that he did in his HBO special. The parts that were true and the parts that were exaggerated. I hadn’t realized that stepping back from the humor of the joke it was an experience that I had several times in my life, and probably will again when I go back to the Bronx. The message was so subliminal and subtle I had missed it, and I’m sure many others missed it to. But for those that didn’t and had never had that experience it must have been quite telling I now realize. And in that I think I can see why Mr. Richard Pryor felt that Mr. Chappelle is his successor.
I have often looked at the comedy of Mr. Dave Chappelle as being often too lowbrow for my taste. I’m sure I may feel that way in the future as well, but perhaps I will take the time to examine that lowbrow joke a bit more carefully in the future. My arrogance hid the meaning and I find it shocking as I value my intellect and analytical prowess above most any other skill or gift I have. For that oversight I must apologize to Mr. Chappelle for I have severely underestimated him.
I must also admit my surprise in something that Mr. Lipton recognized that I took for granted. It’s something so simple in my life, and that of many of my friends (particularly those of Black African American, and Hispanic heritage) that I never really thought about it. It’s the way I speak. I have long held, as many academics have said, that words are the reflection of thought. Spoken or written, words and language are powerful tools. I have spoken to many younger people and others in my own age range that have not had the chance to prosper or travel as I have, and invariably I have said that the more words you know, the more you can convey the precise thought you have to any other human, and that ability is power. I absolutely stand by this thought as it is something that to my knowledge no individual who has attained power (wealth and status going with that power) has failed to have. Yet Mr. Lipton found the loophole, or Achilles Heel in this thought. Mr. Chappelle, Mr. Martin Lawrence and many others, famous (black/hispanic entertainers) and unknown (including myself) that are Black African American share the ability to split our speech to accommodate our surroundings. As Mr. Chappelle explained there is the ‘interview language’ and then there is the more relaxed ‘street’ language. I hadn’t realized that this was the case with the black comedians, or actually any comedian (especially those who are Black African American and/or Hispanic).
While my speech patterns are more formal, and probably considered closer to ‘High English’, when I am in a direct business setting I am sure they are almost exactly ‘High English'. That means that I, like probably all Black African Americans are of 2 minds. You can see it most clearly in the black entertainers. Mr. Eddie Murphy, Mr. Pryor, everyone that has affected a ‘white’ or more correctly proper American English speech pattern. While done mockingly it shows a deeply seated division in thought. It also implies a self-imposed restriction in thought outside of a ‘business’ environment, if my supposition about thought and words is correct. If I am correct then what does the use of a more restrictive and less expansive pool of words mean about the way I think? As I said before, there is no power without thought as express via words and language. It is something I had not considered before.
I should note that I do not mean to imply that speaking like a Rhode’s scholar is the only way to express intelligence. I do imply that I am unaware of a Rhode’s scholar that is of such a dual mind as I mentioned above. I have mentioned in comments that I look forward to one day being able to ‘interview’ (more accurately would be to ask some questions and understand more fully) Ice Cube. I would also like to speak with Mr. Robert Duvall, Mr. Kadeem Hardison, Mr. Morgan Freeman, Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. John Travola, Mr. Johnny Depp and several others. I think that given the chance to speak to any of these and other entertainers it will be a question and an item to probe with them. I feel that this is definitely a question that anyone especially the youth of today need to delve into for themselves.
Another item that Mr. Dave Chappelle mentioned that struck a chord in me, is the dismissive nature that can come to those that write or discuss individuals we don’t know. On a more personal basis I guess it could be called ‘talking behind someone’s back’. On the level of an entertainer, especially in America I believe, it might be called speculation, rumors, or news. The prime example is Mr. Chappelle when he went to Africa. Because he walked away from the show, and possibly a $50 million dollar contract, speculation rumors and news stated that Mr. Chappelle had a crack addiction, was mentally ill, and/or worse. The fact that he had walked away from the show 2 times in the year prior never came up in any announcement. Were it not for the contract and its size we may not have heard of this one. And to assume, conjecture, and/or blatantly accuse a person of an act - or worse yet to dismiss them with accusations of mental enfeeblement or illness - publicly and without regard for their family and children is wrong. I have not reread every post I have made in a while, but I can recall portions of some of the posts I have made - especially when the post was on a topic I feel strongly about. While I will always support my beliefs and opinions, until such a time as a debate provides enough proof contrary or instills enough credible doubt to justify a rethinking of my position (I am fallible of course), I have always tried to restrict my outrage or frustration at the subject and not the person. In some cases the person though is the subject. I wish I could say that I have been, or will in the future be, even-handed in my exposition. I know I have not. I am not omniscient and many of whom I discuss have been in situations I may never be in. I am wrong to brazenly dismiss their convictions or actions. I do an injustice to their family and children when I paint such a broad stroke, and no one has such a right. For that I apologize. I am man enough to admit that I have done these things and may do so again in the future, and I am definitely man enough to stand here and admit that it is wrong.
There are many things in the interview Mr. James Lipton and Mr. Dave Chappelle shared that I must delve into. The consequences of this reflection I cannot say. I cannot fully fathom the breadth of where this will lead me. But focused introspection is never a bad thing in my mind. Knowing your flaws and weaknesses is a key to becoming stronger overall. As Sun-Tzu states in the Art of War (this is from the translation by Mr. Ralph D. Sawyer): Initial Estimations - “Before the engagement, one who determines in the ancestral temple that he will be victorious has found that the majority of factors are in his favor. Before the engagement one who determines in the ancestral temple that he will not be victorious has found few factors in his favor....” and, “If I observe it from this perspective, victory and defeat will be apparent.”
This is what I think, what do you think?
Halftime, no jail time, and time for movies
The Superbowl is over and the halftime show had no incident. No real surprise there. I still cannot understand the massive uproar over the halftime show that Ms. Janet Jackson did. It is even less understandable when you consider the amount of cleavage shown on television in regular programs and television commercials. If anyone want to speak about provocative images affecting the minds of the youth how can you not discuss music videos, especially those of rap/hip hop and rock. Of course the money generated, and the cultural specifics involved obviates anything that would prevent them from being banned or modified.
But in this year’s Superbowl there was nothing remotely sensual. Old men just don’t hit the mark, or do they ladies? For myself, watching the game in a local bar, every guy noticed that the band seemed bored and ready to collapse at the end of the show. They just didn’t seem capable of putting the same kind of energy and life into their songs as they did 10-15 yrs ago. Of course doing the same songs, and ageing, have to have some negative effect at some point. I wondered about the 2 extra guitarists, why were they there? Anyone know why they were needed?
Moving forward, I was reminded how skewed our legal system is. It is even more exaggerated when an entertainer of some renown is involved. Case in point is Mr. Tom Sizemore, who was sentenced to 3 years probation for drug use. Now perhaps, if an individual was convicted for the offense the first time, and was never in trouble before, they would get probation. Being white in this example is a HUGE benefit towards getting probation and no jail time based on my experience watching those I grew up with in the Bronx. It isn’t an option on a second offense, nor if the offender has failed to lead a crime free life. Mr. Sizemore is a great actor, but violating a probation in July and October, trying to rig a drug detection test, and awaiting an appeal on a domestic violence charge you were convicted on is not following the straight and narrow to me. I wouldn’t get the same leniency from the courts, by the odds I’ve seen, probably even on a first offense. That includes the fact that I have a positive, productive standing in the community, good job and never had any problems beyond a ticket. Being a Black/African American Hispanic in this example is bad. An example needs to be made and a line drawn in the sand, because far too many entertainers think they have a free pass. And I tired of hearing the woes of entertainers, like Mr. Robert Downey Jr., who consistently pop up in court because they lack the self-discipline to take advantage of a get-out-of-jail pass (or receive jail times that cross so close to the minimums required by law as to be moot).
Speaking of the law, Freedomland looks to be promising. Starring Mr. Samuel Jackson, this movie is yet another transcription of a solid book into a movie. As I mentioned in my post, Beaming entertainment, directors to you, “...writers employed now have run out of ideas. Or that the executives that greenlight movies assume that the lowest common denominator in America dropped a few points...” I will not shy away from that statement. But perhaps the books are of a better quality this year than in years past. Besides Freedomland, the DaVinci Code and Casino Royale look to be interesting movies. I realize that technically Royale is a remake, but the David Niven film was taken in a different context, a very humorous slant, than this new version that seeks to be closer to the original feeling of the book.
I strongly believe that Mr. Samuel Jackson picks his movies well and his performances have been equally strong. The subject of this movie, blaming potentially innocent Black African Americans as a scapegoat, hidden motives involving a former drug addict, the life of a child, police officers that are both good and bad, all add up to strong potential elements in a good movie. It would be nice to see quality movies return, and I would like that this may be one indication that they are.
Of course there is the other side to the coin, which is the enduring blight of horrendous movies, many remakes or ‘revisionings’ (I try never to see anything with the word revisioned included in any part of the title or description as I prefer to keep my IQ where it is). I am directly referring to the Pink Panther movie that was just released. For anyone who has seen the original, I continue to recommend the original as the only choice. Every critic I read has agreed with my thoughts from Jan 17, 2006 on this movie. The fact that it is the top of the box office only tells you how bad the choices are right now (possibly excepting Curious George, but I haven’t seen that yet, and Underworld Evolution which I like). The fact that a well known comedian, a very popular support (Jean Reno and Kevin Kline) crew and a singer (to get some diversity and draw viewers that would not normally see this film) can only generate $20 million for an opening weekend is disappointing. But the studios knew that, thus it appears in February instead of April or September. [Ms Beyonce Knowles does have some skill in acting, much as I have some skill in speaking Russian. I would not want to translate a public address of any sort; but I won’t starve or freeze if someone dropped me back in Moscow tomorrow. I rate her acting as the same thing. And any advertiser will tell you that she does bring a young, rap hip hop, predominantly Black African American audience to the movies she is in.] Again I suggest not seeing this movie but renting the original. It costs less and you will have a better time.
[I can’t help myself here. Can the Black/African American community please stop give kids stupid names. I hate the neo-African, pro-Black, sounds like one word is spelled insanely differently, fad that has grasped the community. I mean what does Beyonce mean? Is it supposed to be a play on the theme of beyond? Is it a play on the Turkish word for chieftain? Does it mean that the parents were on a drug and screwed up the name (like Dweezil Zappa may have been. Rock star kids still tend to have the worst names in my opinion but that’s a profession and not a race/community). I honestly do wonder that when I hear some of these names, famous or not. Michael means one like God, it is one of the oldest names in the world, predates Christianity and is found in some form in virtually every culture in the world at any time. But this is just my pet peeve.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
But in this year’s Superbowl there was nothing remotely sensual. Old men just don’t hit the mark, or do they ladies? For myself, watching the game in a local bar, every guy noticed that the band seemed bored and ready to collapse at the end of the show. They just didn’t seem capable of putting the same kind of energy and life into their songs as they did 10-15 yrs ago. Of course doing the same songs, and ageing, have to have some negative effect at some point. I wondered about the 2 extra guitarists, why were they there? Anyone know why they were needed?
Moving forward, I was reminded how skewed our legal system is. It is even more exaggerated when an entertainer of some renown is involved. Case in point is Mr. Tom Sizemore, who was sentenced to 3 years probation for drug use. Now perhaps, if an individual was convicted for the offense the first time, and was never in trouble before, they would get probation. Being white in this example is a HUGE benefit towards getting probation and no jail time based on my experience watching those I grew up with in the Bronx. It isn’t an option on a second offense, nor if the offender has failed to lead a crime free life. Mr. Sizemore is a great actor, but violating a probation in July and October, trying to rig a drug detection test, and awaiting an appeal on a domestic violence charge you were convicted on is not following the straight and narrow to me. I wouldn’t get the same leniency from the courts, by the odds I’ve seen, probably even on a first offense. That includes the fact that I have a positive, productive standing in the community, good job and never had any problems beyond a ticket. Being a Black/African American Hispanic in this example is bad. An example needs to be made and a line drawn in the sand, because far too many entertainers think they have a free pass. And I tired of hearing the woes of entertainers, like Mr. Robert Downey Jr., who consistently pop up in court because they lack the self-discipline to take advantage of a get-out-of-jail pass (or receive jail times that cross so close to the minimums required by law as to be moot).
Speaking of the law, Freedomland looks to be promising. Starring Mr. Samuel Jackson, this movie is yet another transcription of a solid book into a movie. As I mentioned in my post, Beaming entertainment, directors to you, “...writers employed now have run out of ideas. Or that the executives that greenlight movies assume that the lowest common denominator in America dropped a few points...” I will not shy away from that statement. But perhaps the books are of a better quality this year than in years past. Besides Freedomland, the DaVinci Code and Casino Royale look to be interesting movies. I realize that technically Royale is a remake, but the David Niven film was taken in a different context, a very humorous slant, than this new version that seeks to be closer to the original feeling of the book.
I strongly believe that Mr. Samuel Jackson picks his movies well and his performances have been equally strong. The subject of this movie, blaming potentially innocent Black African Americans as a scapegoat, hidden motives involving a former drug addict, the life of a child, police officers that are both good and bad, all add up to strong potential elements in a good movie. It would be nice to see quality movies return, and I would like that this may be one indication that they are.
Of course there is the other side to the coin, which is the enduring blight of horrendous movies, many remakes or ‘revisionings’ (I try never to see anything with the word revisioned included in any part of the title or description as I prefer to keep my IQ where it is). I am directly referring to the Pink Panther movie that was just released. For anyone who has seen the original, I continue to recommend the original as the only choice. Every critic I read has agreed with my thoughts from Jan 17, 2006 on this movie. The fact that it is the top of the box office only tells you how bad the choices are right now (possibly excepting Curious George, but I haven’t seen that yet, and Underworld Evolution which I like). The fact that a well known comedian, a very popular support (Jean Reno and Kevin Kline) crew and a singer (to get some diversity and draw viewers that would not normally see this film) can only generate $20 million for an opening weekend is disappointing. But the studios knew that, thus it appears in February instead of April or September. [Ms Beyonce Knowles does have some skill in acting, much as I have some skill in speaking Russian. I would not want to translate a public address of any sort; but I won’t starve or freeze if someone dropped me back in Moscow tomorrow. I rate her acting as the same thing. And any advertiser will tell you that she does bring a young, rap hip hop, predominantly Black African American audience to the movies she is in.] Again I suggest not seeing this movie but renting the original. It costs less and you will have a better time.
[I can’t help myself here. Can the Black/African American community please stop give kids stupid names. I hate the neo-African, pro-Black, sounds like one word is spelled insanely differently, fad that has grasped the community. I mean what does Beyonce mean? Is it supposed to be a play on the theme of beyond? Is it a play on the Turkish word for chieftain? Does it mean that the parents were on a drug and screwed up the name (like Dweezil Zappa may have been. Rock star kids still tend to have the worst names in my opinion but that’s a profession and not a race/community). I honestly do wonder that when I hear some of these names, famous or not. Michael means one like God, it is one of the oldest names in the world, predates Christianity and is found in some form in virtually every culture in the world at any time. But this is just my pet peeve.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Who didn't this commercial offend?
With no time before the game left, let me ask this. How funny and enjoyable is a commercial that has the following: a young white male gets up and beats on a old black man, an asian woman of roughly middle age gets up and starts to gyrate on a pole as if she were a stripper, and a haggard middle eastern kids blasts music (country) on a boom-box all for the whims of a old white woman. Feeling good? Hmmm... what if we change it a bit. How about (this is the actual television commercial now) a young Black African American jumps up and beats on an elderly white male, a haggard White male with a boom-box blasts rock music, a middle aged Black African American woman is gyrating on the pole and after we get to see all this happening on a bus, the driver suddenly stops and throws all the passengers around. This all was done (in the second iteration) at the behest of a White 20ish grunge-ish male because he has amp’d.
Amp’d has a mobile phone something or other and they seem to revel in advertising that insults and repulses large groups of potential clients for no reason. Another of their fun television commercials showed various individuals dying and each being berated because they will expire prior to the launch of the new product line. One I recall was a white politician, with a scantily clad woman on a bed, having a heart attack. Another was a Hispanic male on the floor having a drug overdose. How dare they die, and how ironically stereotypical.
I understand the ridiculous idea that television commercials and ads that offend the sensibilities of some viewers will attract attention of a larger audience and provide name recognition. One of the best set of ads to do that was Calvin Klien jeans (I think they were the first). Those ads were universally remembered as stupid and the success can be seen in how many still own/buy those3 jeans. I find that ads of this nature are just offensive and remind me that when I see the product to stay far away. I look forward to announcements that the company with these ads has gone bankrupt, so I will never have to see their ads again.
Bankruptcy cannot happen to soon for amp’d, or whatever their exact name is. I wish they can get sued. Both of their commercials are offensive to each group they portray. There is no benefit seen from their product and the message they send is just short of bias, to almost every one.
I do not like the portrayal of a White male as a god-like figure because of a cheap product. I do not condone violence against the elderly (or mature older adults if you wish). Women of every color are more than just objects that prance at the whim of any male around them. Do the advertising team that creates these ads or the executive team from the company that approves them even consider what they are doing? Has money so blinded them that they don’t care. I have difficulty believing most anyone is that soulless.
What do you think a child of 5, or 10 or 15 thinks of this commercial and others like it. (I saw it on at 3:30pm on a Sunday watching the movie The Shadow) What vindication does it give to those who objectify or hate women, Black African Americans, Hispanics. Or perhaps to other mixed up people like the kid who, allegedly, attacked and killed those men in New England. And what are people from other parts of the world who don’t understand our culture or language supposed to think. Imagine that commercial without sound. Commercials are more than just a product, they are a message about the people who use the product. Thankfully I will never use this one.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Amp’d has a mobile phone something or other and they seem to revel in advertising that insults and repulses large groups of potential clients for no reason. Another of their fun television commercials showed various individuals dying and each being berated because they will expire prior to the launch of the new product line. One I recall was a white politician, with a scantily clad woman on a bed, having a heart attack. Another was a Hispanic male on the floor having a drug overdose. How dare they die, and how ironically stereotypical.
I understand the ridiculous idea that television commercials and ads that offend the sensibilities of some viewers will attract attention of a larger audience and provide name recognition. One of the best set of ads to do that was Calvin Klien jeans (I think they were the first). Those ads were universally remembered as stupid and the success can be seen in how many still own/buy those3 jeans. I find that ads of this nature are just offensive and remind me that when I see the product to stay far away. I look forward to announcements that the company with these ads has gone bankrupt, so I will never have to see their ads again.
Bankruptcy cannot happen to soon for amp’d, or whatever their exact name is. I wish they can get sued. Both of their commercials are offensive to each group they portray. There is no benefit seen from their product and the message they send is just short of bias, to almost every one.
I do not like the portrayal of a White male as a god-like figure because of a cheap product. I do not condone violence against the elderly (or mature older adults if you wish). Women of every color are more than just objects that prance at the whim of any male around them. Do the advertising team that creates these ads or the executive team from the company that approves them even consider what they are doing? Has money so blinded them that they don’t care. I have difficulty believing most anyone is that soulless.
What do you think a child of 5, or 10 or 15 thinks of this commercial and others like it. (I saw it on at 3:30pm on a Sunday watching the movie The Shadow) What vindication does it give to those who objectify or hate women, Black African Americans, Hispanics. Or perhaps to other mixed up people like the kid who, allegedly, attacked and killed those men in New England. And what are people from other parts of the world who don’t understand our culture or language supposed to think. Imagine that commercial without sound. Commercials are more than just a product, they are a message about the people who use the product. Thankfully I will never use this one.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, February 03, 2006
Ranting about music poll
Is there any more telling statement about music today than that a recent poll showed that 49% of 18-34 year olds think music is getting worse? Being just outside that range doesn’t change my agreement with the other 49%. I do fall into the 98% that find rap hip hop to not be my favorite style of music. I know its quite a shock to some of my readers. What does this mean though?
I don’t think this poll was focused on cities, or it was very balanced to include smaller towns. [Cities have millions of people, towns don’t. Most would disagree with that but as a man raised in the city where 3 blocks contain as many people as some places signified as cities, it makes sense. IE. Salt Lake is a big town with 750,000 L.A. is a city with ~4 million.] The poll claims that only 18% under 35 think it’s their favorite style of music. In my experience the majority of youth in a city, Black African American, Hispanic, White or otherwise, listen to rap hip hop almost exclusively. That says nothing to the quality of the music, just as the plethora of malt liquor ads in urban poor areas says nothing about the quality of liquor in general. But the fact that almost a majority find that the music (of all styles including rock, alternative, country ect) is repetitive, uninspired, commercialized and fluff vs. quality is significant. (I may be reading into the numbers a bit) What is causing this noticeable lack of originality and taste?
American Idol, one hit wonders, and lack of music programs in schools. There have always been the one hitters out there, that is the nature of the business. American Idol in my humble opinion is the single greatest example of the bottom of the common denominator that television tries to mass produce. It provides the deadliest of all the ills in pandora’s box, hope. Tens of thousands of sub-par hopefuls compete to get the chance to underwhelm as an entertainer. Name the last song of a winner of any of the Idolesque shows, or an actual purchase of said artists album that you made. How about a friend of yours? When in a flood of no talents, the sub-par shine as if they were legends until true talented entertainers are brought to bear.
The bigger problem though is we are not inspiring kids to delve into music, or any of the arts, in any serious manner. Rather that providing programs to teach and develop raw talent and skill, we provide the hope of sudden riches and fame in these pedestrian programs. And when some with any talent or skill do succeed they are not prepared for the cost of sudden fame and critic. It’s hard to imagine a modern day Mozart, when we don’t give kids the chance to actually touch an instrument, hear a chorus, or get near a stage. Someone once said, “When a civilization stops growing its culture it stops growing and decays.” [Tell me who and I will give them the credit they deserve]
Yes I am rambling a bit, but that’s what the blog is for right?
I don’t think this poll was focused on cities, or it was very balanced to include smaller towns. [Cities have millions of people, towns don’t. Most would disagree with that but as a man raised in the city where 3 blocks contain as many people as some places signified as cities, it makes sense. IE. Salt Lake is a big town with 750,000 L.A. is a city with ~4 million.] The poll claims that only 18% under 35 think it’s their favorite style of music. In my experience the majority of youth in a city, Black African American, Hispanic, White or otherwise, listen to rap hip hop almost exclusively. That says nothing to the quality of the music, just as the plethora of malt liquor ads in urban poor areas says nothing about the quality of liquor in general. But the fact that almost a majority find that the music (of all styles including rock, alternative, country ect) is repetitive, uninspired, commercialized and fluff vs. quality is significant. (I may be reading into the numbers a bit) What is causing this noticeable lack of originality and taste?
American Idol, one hit wonders, and lack of music programs in schools. There have always been the one hitters out there, that is the nature of the business. American Idol in my humble opinion is the single greatest example of the bottom of the common denominator that television tries to mass produce. It provides the deadliest of all the ills in pandora’s box, hope. Tens of thousands of sub-par hopefuls compete to get the chance to underwhelm as an entertainer. Name the last song of a winner of any of the Idolesque shows, or an actual purchase of said artists album that you made. How about a friend of yours? When in a flood of no talents, the sub-par shine as if they were legends until true talented entertainers are brought to bear.
The bigger problem though is we are not inspiring kids to delve into music, or any of the arts, in any serious manner. Rather that providing programs to teach and develop raw talent and skill, we provide the hope of sudden riches and fame in these pedestrian programs. And when some with any talent or skill do succeed they are not prepared for the cost of sudden fame and critic. It’s hard to imagine a modern day Mozart, when we don’t give kids the chance to actually touch an instrument, hear a chorus, or get near a stage. Someone once said, “When a civilization stops growing its culture it stops growing and decays.” [Tell me who and I will give them the credit they deserve]
Yes I am rambling a bit, but that’s what the blog is for right?
Mr. Simmons honored, parents outraged and lettuce
I’m happy to mention in this post a bit about Mr. Russell Simmons. Many may think of him and remember Def Jam Records or HBO's "Def Comedy Jam." Some might even recall that he created Rush Communications. To say that he is a leader in the Black African American community and a positive force in entertainment may be short-sighted. I have great respect for his accomplishments and determination to prove that anyone, especially black and hispanic youth, can become more than just a statistic. Recently Mr. Simmons was honored for his work in another creation of his, the Hip-Hop Summit Action. To quote Mr. Simmons, “Whatever they can imagine for themselves they can accomplish," he said. "Anything you can dream about, you can do.” Why something as positive as these words and actions has not been spoken more about is troubling. I pose to the media that may view this, as well as to various entertainers I often find fault with, why is the only major coverage given to Black African Americans and Hispanics (other minorities are basically ignored in my opinion) when something has gone wrong or crimes committed?
Of course everything can’t be positive, I am dealing with the media and entertainment. I was raised and grew up in New York City. [Negative comments about NYC are generally from those who have never lived there as I’ve noticed and are summarily ignored by me in person. For this blog please say something relevant if you must detract the city.] Like many I know from the city, the lifestyles of ‘middle-America’ make little if no sense. Often in growing up, my friends and I would laugh at the depictions of schools and life in Smalltown USA, since they were so far removed from anything we had seen. Having traveled a great deal since then, both abroad and here in the nation, I have learned that some of the depictions of various television shows are not that far off. I still do not fully understand how people live like that, but that is just a personal adjustment.
I mention all of that to bring up this item, that parents are angered that a teacher allowed their children to see a video on “Faust”. The outrage was not that the children were to young to understand the material, they were between 1st and 3rd grade. It was not that they were being shown an opera. It was that the children had been shown something that had the devil (actually Mephistopheles but who needs details right?) in it and making a deal with a man. One parent stated, “Any adult with common sense would not think that video was appropriate for a young person to see. I'm not sure it's appropriate for a high school student.” Am I in the same country as these parents?
Faust is a classic. It is literary art. It is a tale of morality and let us not forget that the lead does not walk away happy at the end. Perhaps some of the children were too young, the principal thinks that 4th graders and above would have been better, but that isn’t the complaint. Considering the violence on television, even cartoons some ultra-conservative fanatical religious individuals consider too violent, I doubt the video was worse than Cops, 24, or ER depending on your view. [By the way anyone who is fanatical should be ignored in my opinion. Anyone so extreme as to be caught in tunnel-vision by their interpretation of anything is wrong. Human nature is flawed, as are our creations and interpretations. A fanatic jumps off a cliff because their belief says their deity will save them, a lunatic does so because they think they can fly (or their deity/pet/rock/ect said they could). While very different reasons, the lack or denial of acceptance of other ideas merits the same result. Not the best analogy but you get the idea that I am posing.]
I wonder how many of these parents let their kids watch Charmed, or Sabrina the teen aged witch, or Johnny Phantom (I think that’s the name, kids cartoon where the lead can turn intangible like a ghost). More to the point, a story will not turn you sweet little kid into a mass murderer like Gacy. Not if you are paying attention and interacting with your child. Please will someone remind people it is not the responsibility of media, nor any entertainer or form of entertainment, to give your child values. And faulting someone who is trying to expand the mind of a child with art and knowledge is not the answer. Art, and entertainment, should expand the mind of any participant. If it does not the effort has been wasted in my opinion. [Entertainers are not excused from acting responsibly though, children and adults still look to them for inspiration above and beyond their daily lives - see my post on NBA code for my thoughts on that.]
Somewhat in that vein of though is another question. If an actor, who may or may not be gay but advocates it, plays a straight character is there any effect. I’m serious. Think of any entertainer in any field. Does watching a film with Black African American or Hispanic actors as leads turn you into a black person? [Though considering the number of films hat have starred Black or Hispanic actors as leads you may think that Hollywood executives fall into this line of thinking.] Conversely does it make an Asian into a White person? I touch on this a bit in AOL creates gay music, entertainment or restriction?
It seems that some feel it can. Rev. Jason Janz, Rev. R. Albert Mohler Jr, and others are protesting for that reason. I see no other cause to be alarmed by the actor’s, Mr. Chad Allen, portrayal. I haven’t seen the movie, another not in my interest zone, but I haven’t heard of anyone suddenly claiming a life-altering effect after seeing it (and if they did I would seriously have questions about that individual). I wonder if either of the reverends or others protesting this movie for this reason have ever rolled around in lettuce while having sex. I ask that because a famous and respected singer was alleged to do so in divorce papers presented in court some years ago, and I would imagine that unless these individuals were in a cave they have heard his music at some point over the last 30 years.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Of course everything can’t be positive, I am dealing with the media and entertainment. I was raised and grew up in New York City. [Negative comments about NYC are generally from those who have never lived there as I’ve noticed and are summarily ignored by me in person. For this blog please say something relevant if you must detract the city.] Like many I know from the city, the lifestyles of ‘middle-America’ make little if no sense. Often in growing up, my friends and I would laugh at the depictions of schools and life in Smalltown USA, since they were so far removed from anything we had seen. Having traveled a great deal since then, both abroad and here in the nation, I have learned that some of the depictions of various television shows are not that far off. I still do not fully understand how people live like that, but that is just a personal adjustment.
I mention all of that to bring up this item, that parents are angered that a teacher allowed their children to see a video on “Faust”. The outrage was not that the children were to young to understand the material, they were between 1st and 3rd grade. It was not that they were being shown an opera. It was that the children had been shown something that had the devil (actually Mephistopheles but who needs details right?) in it and making a deal with a man. One parent stated, “Any adult with common sense would not think that video was appropriate for a young person to see. I'm not sure it's appropriate for a high school student.” Am I in the same country as these parents?
Faust is a classic. It is literary art. It is a tale of morality and let us not forget that the lead does not walk away happy at the end. Perhaps some of the children were too young, the principal thinks that 4th graders and above would have been better, but that isn’t the complaint. Considering the violence on television, even cartoons some ultra-conservative fanatical religious individuals consider too violent, I doubt the video was worse than Cops, 24, or ER depending on your view. [By the way anyone who is fanatical should be ignored in my opinion. Anyone so extreme as to be caught in tunnel-vision by their interpretation of anything is wrong. Human nature is flawed, as are our creations and interpretations. A fanatic jumps off a cliff because their belief says their deity will save them, a lunatic does so because they think they can fly (or their deity/pet/rock/ect said they could). While very different reasons, the lack or denial of acceptance of other ideas merits the same result. Not the best analogy but you get the idea that I am posing.]
I wonder how many of these parents let their kids watch Charmed, or Sabrina the teen aged witch, or Johnny Phantom (I think that’s the name, kids cartoon where the lead can turn intangible like a ghost). More to the point, a story will not turn you sweet little kid into a mass murderer like Gacy. Not if you are paying attention and interacting with your child. Please will someone remind people it is not the responsibility of media, nor any entertainer or form of entertainment, to give your child values. And faulting someone who is trying to expand the mind of a child with art and knowledge is not the answer. Art, and entertainment, should expand the mind of any participant. If it does not the effort has been wasted in my opinion. [Entertainers are not excused from acting responsibly though, children and adults still look to them for inspiration above and beyond their daily lives - see my post on NBA code for my thoughts on that.]
Somewhat in that vein of though is another question. If an actor, who may or may not be gay but advocates it, plays a straight character is there any effect. I’m serious. Think of any entertainer in any field. Does watching a film with Black African American or Hispanic actors as leads turn you into a black person? [Though considering the number of films hat have starred Black or Hispanic actors as leads you may think that Hollywood executives fall into this line of thinking.] Conversely does it make an Asian into a White person? I touch on this a bit in AOL creates gay music, entertainment or restriction?
It seems that some feel it can. Rev. Jason Janz, Rev. R. Albert Mohler Jr, and others are protesting for that reason. I see no other cause to be alarmed by the actor’s, Mr. Chad Allen, portrayal. I haven’t seen the movie, another not in my interest zone, but I haven’t heard of anyone suddenly claiming a life-altering effect after seeing it (and if they did I would seriously have questions about that individual). I wonder if either of the reverends or others protesting this movie for this reason have ever rolled around in lettuce while having sex. I ask that because a famous and respected singer was alleged to do so in divorce papers presented in court some years ago, and I would imagine that unless these individuals were in a cave they have heard his music at some point over the last 30 years.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Sanaa Lathan and the other side of interracial dating
I was caught between a couple of items today, the ratings on several network broadcast and cable television programs, when I noticed something a bit more enticing. It wasn’t the fact that Mr. George Clooney has done so well in the Oscars race this year. A far less glamorized movie that will be coming out shortly - Something New.
When I first noticed anything about this movie, it was that it was a love story. Being a fan of sci-fi and action films, and more than occasionally watching what friends call ‘high intellect’ films, love stories don’t usually hit my radar. Not that there is anything wrong with them. And I don’t mean to imply they are ‘chick flicks’ and I’m too manly to see them. It’s just not my thing.
This film does have an interesting twist on the theme though. The couple is an interracial one. Even more interesting is that the woman is a Black African American and the man is White. In its own way I think this film is similar in cultural impact to Guess Who’s Coming Home to Dinner, except this time it’s the Black culture that gets the surprise.
It’s not a new thing, interracial couples have been around a long time. They are socially accepted moreso now than ever before, I think the late 70's and early 80's was the turning point in the nation. The portrayal of a Black African American woman in an interracial couple is different though. Black women have long been the champions of the call to ‘Keep it black’ and ‘Stay true to your people’ in my experience. [I have known many women who believe the above strongly. I have seen some lash out at a white girlfriend of a black male, just because she was with him and he had never dated the woman. I have even had a woman I dated breakup with me due to the fact that I had dated ‘outside the race barrier’. I find both actions incredibly stupid and repulsive.] Much of the return to Africa and re-embracement of traditional African culture, has been lead by black women at least on a community basis as I have seen.
Yet as Ms. Sanaa Lathan states “...about 42.4 percent of black women in America aren't married. Black women are shooting up the corporate ladder way faster than our black male counterparts. And (black men) are either dating outside their race, in jail or dying...” [By the way my poem I rejoice in me may give you an idea of how I feel about my place in American society] The surprise is still there as, in my experience, Black African American women more than any other group including Hispanic women have stated (some shouted) they will stand by their Black African American man. Quite the diametric I think.
It will be very interesting to see how this movie does, especially in cities with high ‘minority’ populations. It is well known that many Black African American actors will not do movies or scenes that have a White female as a love interest or sexual partner. At least its well known in the communities I’ve been in. Mr. Denzel Washington has never done so nor several other prominent Black actors. The fear is alienating the Black female audience. Alienate them and watch movie sales along with star power disappear. Even Mr. Wesley Snipes has felt the backlash, I believe, if not in moviegoers definitely in the black media.
The big question though is why is this such a big deal? Interracial dating, in a movie or in real life, should not be such a question. Or am I mistaken. Does it matter what color your mate is, since the only person it should hold importance to is you and your mate. Obviously to racists it make quite the difference, but what about everyone else? I wouldn’t call Black women racist for having a belief in having a strong black family, just as I wouldn’t say that about a white female. But where is the line, if it exists at all, that crosses to the extreme. [My personal examples above seem well beyond that point but others may disagree.]
So I find that while I still will not go to see this movie, it's still a love story and they have no interest to me, I will probably watch a couple of minutes when it on DVD or regular cable among friends and/or family just to see how everyone reacts. If nothing else I find that the premise is timely, and culturally dynamic.
This is what I think, what do you think?
When I first noticed anything about this movie, it was that it was a love story. Being a fan of sci-fi and action films, and more than occasionally watching what friends call ‘high intellect’ films, love stories don’t usually hit my radar. Not that there is anything wrong with them. And I don’t mean to imply they are ‘chick flicks’ and I’m too manly to see them. It’s just not my thing.
This film does have an interesting twist on the theme though. The couple is an interracial one. Even more interesting is that the woman is a Black African American and the man is White. In its own way I think this film is similar in cultural impact to Guess Who’s Coming Home to Dinner, except this time it’s the Black culture that gets the surprise.
It’s not a new thing, interracial couples have been around a long time. They are socially accepted moreso now than ever before, I think the late 70's and early 80's was the turning point in the nation. The portrayal of a Black African American woman in an interracial couple is different though. Black women have long been the champions of the call to ‘Keep it black’ and ‘Stay true to your people’ in my experience. [I have known many women who believe the above strongly. I have seen some lash out at a white girlfriend of a black male, just because she was with him and he had never dated the woman. I have even had a woman I dated breakup with me due to the fact that I had dated ‘outside the race barrier’. I find both actions incredibly stupid and repulsive.] Much of the return to Africa and re-embracement of traditional African culture, has been lead by black women at least on a community basis as I have seen.
Yet as Ms. Sanaa Lathan states “...about 42.4 percent of black women in America aren't married. Black women are shooting up the corporate ladder way faster than our black male counterparts. And (black men) are either dating outside their race, in jail or dying...” [By the way my poem I rejoice in me may give you an idea of how I feel about my place in American society] The surprise is still there as, in my experience, Black African American women more than any other group including Hispanic women have stated (some shouted) they will stand by their Black African American man. Quite the diametric I think.
It will be very interesting to see how this movie does, especially in cities with high ‘minority’ populations. It is well known that many Black African American actors will not do movies or scenes that have a White female as a love interest or sexual partner. At least its well known in the communities I’ve been in. Mr. Denzel Washington has never done so nor several other prominent Black actors. The fear is alienating the Black female audience. Alienate them and watch movie sales along with star power disappear. Even Mr. Wesley Snipes has felt the backlash, I believe, if not in moviegoers definitely in the black media.
The big question though is why is this such a big deal? Interracial dating, in a movie or in real life, should not be such a question. Or am I mistaken. Does it matter what color your mate is, since the only person it should hold importance to is you and your mate. Obviously to racists it make quite the difference, but what about everyone else? I wouldn’t call Black women racist for having a belief in having a strong black family, just as I wouldn’t say that about a white female. But where is the line, if it exists at all, that crosses to the extreme. [My personal examples above seem well beyond that point but others may disagree.]
So I find that while I still will not go to see this movie, it's still a love story and they have no interest to me, I will probably watch a couple of minutes when it on DVD or regular cable among friends and/or family just to see how everyone reacts. If nothing else I find that the premise is timely, and culturally dynamic.
This is what I think, what do you think?
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