BOWLING FOR ANSWERS

By: B -- 2/6/03
Orginally printed in the UMD Statesman

Some movies are enjoyable; others are informative. It seems to be a rarity, especially considering the current state of movies, to watch a movie that fits both of those attributes. Bowling for Columbine is, thankfully, one of those films.

Director Michael Moore (Roger and Me) headed this documentary regarding the issue of news violence and gun culture. This has become a hot topic as of late, and Moore uses statistics, personal testimony and a dry wit to bring the issues at hand to the forefront.

Although the school shootings at Columbine High School are alluded to in the film's title, this movie covered much more than just the tragedy. Moore covers the Oklahoma City bombings, the responsibility of government in the debate, the history of our nation (covered in an unforgettable cartoon scene), the role of the National Rifle Association, and certain big businesses that are involved in the issue.

Moore tries to show the viewer that news violence, which is the glorification of violence as portrayed on the news, leads to an irrational fear in the American people. This fear leads to more deaths, which in turn are glamorized even more and resulting in a tragic and costly spiral. Moore doesn't pin the blame on any person or group in particular, but instead asks some insightful questions.

The news media are the most evident culprits in this debate, according to Moore. The standard for newscast coverage is known as "If it bleeds, it leads," and Moore is insinuating that this just may be the reason for the fear displayed by Americans. Moore points out that Americans are more scared now than ever, but the murder rates have actually been decreasing. But you wouldn't know it by watching a local newscast. Stories of burglary, fires, drowning, car accidents and deaths are what we see. Is this newsworthy? Moore questions it.

Moore's first-person documentary includes an astute interview from Matt Stone, co-creator of "South Park" and former Columbine High School student. There is another interview from hardcore glam rocker Marilyn Manson, who is well spoken and insightful about the issue. Their testimony only adds to Moore's point - this is an issue that needs to be looked at and dealt with.

This film is not always easy to watch. At times, Moore's passion for answers causes his interviewers a great amount of confusion and anger. The questions he presents are sure to make most viewers feel uncomfortable, and the footage from the Columbine tragedy will cause tears to be shed, but the point is a very necessary one in today's society.

Anyone who knows Moore and his body of work will admit he is a very liberal person. This movie is also skewed to the left side, and there are probably parts that aren't completely true, but the testimony and statistics are difficult to ignore.

Bowling for Columbine is a great movie. It is not perfect, and Moore's statistics may not be completely consistent, but the bravery and magnitude are sure to shine through. We need more of this in movies.

Enjoyable movies are always good to see, but with this one there are also important lessons to be learned, or at least considered.

POP RATING: 7.8

CRITICAL RATING: 9.1

B'S RATING: 8.5

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