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greenetree
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Username: Greenetree
Post Number: 7458
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 8:56 am: | 
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So, I says to TS the other night "I don't know if I want to see that." She says "I might." Interesting, because when all of it happened, I stayed glued to the TV for 3 days, trying to understand. She, who saw it, went to bed for 2 days and didn't go back to her lower Manhattan office for 2 months (worked in a Jersey office). I guess that we've changed places.
I didn't think anything about it, until I saw a clip of it on the Joel Seigel review this morning on GMA. I started crying, which surprised me.
I'm glad that I wasn't one of those people in the NY theaters who had the trailers sprung on them with no warning.
I don't think it's "too early". I just don't think that I'm ready. But I have to wonder if I'll ever be. |
Duncan
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Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6262
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:03 am: |
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The portrait taken of all the families who attended the opening screening at the Tribeca Film Festival is amazing. As are their responses. Those are some brave families to go sit in a theater and watch what is the best known last moments of their loved ones lives.
In a way, whether I am ready or not, I have to see it. As an citizen of the world and as a filmmaker. The director had one hell of a hard job to do with that story. |
greenetree
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Username: Greenetree
Post Number: 7460
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:06 am: |
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Seigel says that it will no doubt end up on his "10 Best" this year. I agree about the families; I'm amazed at their strength in the interviews that I've seen. |
Morrisa da Silva
Citizen
Username: Mod
Post Number: 443
Registered: 12-2003
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:11 am: |
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I saw a clip on T.V. and was in tears. I know I cannot see it. For me it is too soon. I also have not been back to lower manhattan since and have not seen the WTC site. |
LilLB
Citizen
Username: Lillb
Post Number: 1617
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:12 am: |
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I'll see it eventually, but it will be when it's out on DVD so I can watch it at home and cry in the privacy of my own home (no one needs to see me sob uncontrollably at the movies....) I agree that it's not too early to be released, but it's definitely too early for me.
I don't know how those families were able to go to the screening.... |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3601
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:15 am: |
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I won't see it. I can't see it. I still can't bring myself to look at that hole in the ground without getting all choked up.
I feel like I "lived it" and that was awful enough. I don't need to go see a movie that reminds me of what a horrible, awful, frightening day that was. I know the folks on that plane were heroes, without having to go see someone's interpretation of what may or may not have happened on the plane that day.
IMHO, it's kind of in poor taste, and seems, at least to me, to "sensationalize" the event. Ultimately, it's all about what every other movie that's ever made is all about: making money.
Just my two cents, and my own personal feelings. |
Duncan
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Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6265
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:28 am: |
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meand...you are welcome to your feelings but strangely they are at odds with the families of the people on board the plane.
Grief sucks. At every level.
And the "sensationalizing" is what I was referring to when I said the director had one hell of a job with that story. 1 |
eliz
Supporter
Username: Eliz
Post Number: 1420
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:37 am: |
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I was surprised to read a few weeks ago that the families were supportive of the movie but after thinking about it I can understand. I may see it on video in the privacy of my home but I am so unsure of my reaction that I would rather not see it in a public movie theater.
I had the television on a few weeks ago while doing some chores and I was blindsided by the voice recordings that were played at the terror trial and was literally sick to my stomach. I'm not ready.
People will do what they are comfortable with - I think in some ways it will be good for the rest of the country to see it. |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3602
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:49 am: |
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Duncan, grief does things to people you might not rationally believe it would do, were you not in their position. If the families are supporting the movie (and I thought I heard not all of them were) that's their business and their prerogative. I personally don't feel that gives the movie any more validity. Again, it is basically a marketing ploy. Obviously, the folks who made the movie want the families in their corner, and will work hard to make it so.
Had I lost a loved one on that plane, I can't help but believe I wouldn't want to watch a movie about it. But that's just me. And I didn't lose someone on that plane so I can't really know how I would react.
And I agree with eliz. I think the market for this movie may not be the people who were directly and immediately touched by the events of that day. I think the market may be "the rest of the country" who watched from afar and had very little emotional connection to the events of that day. |
Hank Zona
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Username: Hankzona
Post Number: 5543
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 9:54 am: |
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I know movies arent made just to "entertain" but to "inform" us and draw out a range of emotions as well. I remember when "Saving Private Ryan" came out and we were all told it was a movie that we had to see because of how realistically it portrayed war, no matter how graphic it might be. After seeing it, I thought it was a good and well-done movie, but not one "I had to see" after all. And its not that I only wish to see movies that entertain me, although more and more, I find that that tends to be my preference, although not soley what I seek in a movie.
This movie, and any of the wave of other 9-11 related movies that are going to come out, do not interest me. Sure, the topic interests me, and always will...but I think it is way too close to home still, literally and figuratively. I turned the TV off shortly after the towers fell, and have consciously curtailed watching any images of that day since. I kept the TV off early on because I did not want my young kids to watch the footage, although they were made aware of what was happening, since my brother, a NYC fireman who had been off-duty, was there for four days straight, then for many months after (I have written about my feelings and experiences regarding 9-11 in another MOL section, so I wont re-hash it here). I kept the TV off after those initial days because I did not have to see the pictures and video of what I had already read and seen and heard directly from people.
I do not have a problem with anyone making this movie, or seeing this movie. My decision to not go see it is truly a personal choice, and I respect anyone who feels they want to or have to see this movie (I believe there is a distinction between wanting to see it and having to see it, by the way). I suppose I will have a problem with any of the ensuing productions if they try to re-write the history of the event that is still very fresh and painful to so many people around us. But as for this movie, I do not have to see it and I do not think I will want to see it any time soon. |
Duncan
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Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6266
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 10:26 am: |
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meand..clearly we agree to disagree.
But marketing ploy sounds a bit cynical. Greengrass went to great trouble to make an authentic film based on what information is available. And it is not the first film to document the event. "The Flight that Fought Back" and another "Flight 93" both appeared on television already.
And Hank you are right, not everyone "has to see it". I have to see it. I didn't mean to imply that I thought everyone had to see it. So many people who were actually involved in the decisions of that day are in this film that I want to see why they felt comfortable lending their support.
Plus from a purely filmic point of view, movies that are made in real time are extremely difficult to pull off. And this film is 91 minutes long, intentionally. |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3604
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 10:29 am: |
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Yes, we disagree, and yes I am a bit of a cynic. But I'm sure you'll agree that the ultimate goal is to make money off this film, no? |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3605
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 10:30 am: |
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It is "Hollywood" after all. |
Hank Zona
Supporter
Username: Hankzona
Post Number: 5545
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 10:39 am: |
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Duncan...I think your professional "having to see it" is also different than a more general "having to see it" statement...and I didnt mean to imply that you yourself were implying that everyone had to see it.
And by the way, this movie does not sound like some loathesome commercial venture like the folks hawking graphic pictures at the WTC site or on eBay. Of course, then there is the Oliver Stone 9-11 movie that will be out some time soon...I have a distant cousin who was involved in a rescue that morning that is featured in the movie (he has since retired from the FDNY) and who was paid as a consultant by Stone, in order to ensure "accuracy", which of course hasnt always been Stone's strong suit...time will tell. |
Phenixrising
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Username: Phenixrising
Post Number: 1576
Registered: 9-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 10:52 am: |
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It seems that most folks who live in or around NYC or DC have no personal desire to see this movie. Personally, I decline. Like Hank said "to close to home." Even though I was not near the towers, I was in NYC working and can see the towers burning. It was chaotic! Both myself and the spouse work in NYC, our kids were both in school and was very afraid when 9/11 went down. Until a neighbor was able to pick-up both kids from school to tell them we were ok that they were able to relax a bit. I had 2 cousins who did work in the towers one was able to get to safety, the other had his eyes damaged by the debris when the towers collapsed.
Living not far from 9/11 and NY, most of us MOLers feel "to close" to the worst attack on American soil in modern times. Why relive it again?
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LilLB
Citizen
Username: Lillb
Post Number: 1620
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:06 am: |
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Phenix -I agree - I think people close to the event are on a different timetable for grieving,recovering,whatever you want to call it. People who "experienced" the day as you described, may feel differently than those who didn't. Also remember that in the metro area, we saw news reports from ground zero every single day since 9/11 for the year following. I don't think that was the case on local news stations across the country. It was important to report, but it kept the saddness alive for much longer. At least that's how I felt about it. |
Duncan
Supporter
Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6268
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:16 am: |
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Quote:It is Hollywood, after all
This is what I mean by cynicism. Do they hope to make money on the film? That is a ridiculous question, of course they do. But making money and telling a true and honest story are not mutually exclusive. Did Speilberg hope to make money with Schindlers List, of course. Does that make it somehow a less powerful film? No.
All of us who live here have our own personal 9/11 stories to tell, whether we lost a friend, couldn't get home, had friends who worked in the towers what have you. Perhaps it is "too close" for this area but I imagine it is even more "too close" to the folks in Penn.
For me, personally, facing grief and loss is an important way to move past it, and I have had more than my share of each.
which is in no way meant to imply that others haven't |
Wendyn
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Username: Wendyn
Post Number: 3037
Registered: 9-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:17 am: |
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Ebert's review:
http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060427/REVIEWS/60419 006
From the feedback I've gotten anyone who has gone to see it with a cynical eye comes back with an understanding. That is definitely not saying everyone should go see it.
Saying all films are made with an eye toward making money is like saying all paintings, books, and other art forms are made for the same reason. JK Rowlings didn't start writing about Harry Potter to become a billionaire any more than Duncan Rogers did when he made "The Reader". 
Keep in mind that the artist and the studio are different. Greengrass, and Oliver Stone for that matter, hopefully have better reasons to make these films than just to make money. Studios pick the films up because they want to make money. Just like Scholastic picked up Harry Potter. Hopefully there are also people at studios/publishers/art galleries who also hope to enlighten the public with a great piece of art. Unfortunately great pieces of art don't always make the most money, and money is what keep these companies in business.
I won't see it in the theater, mainly because I almost never go to films and when I do I want strict entertainment. Or at least a great looking guy on screen. But what can I say, I'm a shallow kind of gal. |
Wendyn
Supporter
Username: Wendyn
Post Number: 3038
Registered: 9-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:19 am: |
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Of course it would have been nice if Duncan had become a billionaire off of his lovely short film. 
Maybe someday, right Duncan? |
Eats Shoots & Leaves
Citizen
Username: Mfpark
Post Number: 3297
Registered: 9-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:21 am: |
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Went to Millburn Cinemas to see a movie alone a few weekends back. Had no idea the trailer was going to be shown, but it was, without warning. I started crying, quietly, and looked away, my stomach knotted in horror. I heard other sobs in the dark as well.
I was stunned by both my intense reaction and the fact that a movie theater would show that trailer in the New Jersey/New York City area with no warning. How many people sitting there had lost someone? How many were in the Towers that day? It is one thing if you choose to see the film, but to be totally unprepared for the trailer was very tough. I did not lose anyone close, and I was not downtown, but for personal reasons it hit me as viscerally as if I were in the midst of it that day, and seeing it again on a very large screen with no warning was a huge shock to my system. |
Duncan
Supporter
Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6269
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:26 am: |
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billionare?? nah I just want to recoup the cost, so a thousandaire would do. |
Wendyn
Supporter
Username: Wendyn
Post Number: 3039
Registered: 9-2002
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 11:44 am: |
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Ok, I'll be the billionaire. |
Just The Aunt
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Username: Auntof13
Post Number: 4832
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 1:26 pm: |
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A friend of mine is one of the reporters who wrote the story about this movie in the Star Ledge earlier. From what I understand, the families are behind this movie. A percentage of the profits will be going to a victim's fund for the families of those killed on Flight 93.
We have to remember, nobody knows for sure what really happened on Flight 93 that dreadful day. The only thing we do know for sure, based on cellphone calls made from some of those the plane, some of the passengers attempted to take back control of the plane. If it weren't for these people attempting to do something many more people would have been killed. Here they knew other planes crashed into the Twin Towers, most likely knowing no matter what they did they were going to die, they put aside their fears, and did something.
This film has done with compassion and as a tribute to those who lost their lives. A couple months ago there was a similar movie on the Discovery Channel. I think it was called Flight 93 Down.
Some friends and I might go to see the movie tomorrow night. |
Just The Aunt
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Username: Auntof13
Post Number: 4833
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 1:55 pm: |
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Another thought. There is ***another*** 9.11 related movie due out this summer based around two of the firemen who died. Their families are outraged. They do NOT want this movie made. In this case, I don't think this movie should be made. The firefighter's real names are used in the movie as well as actual information about their personal information. This movie I won't see.
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AntoninaKC
Citizen
Username: Antoninakc
Post Number: 249
Registered: 5-2005
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 2:25 pm: |
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I saw an interview with the director of Flight 93. He said that if he hadn't have gotten the permission of each and every family then he wouldn't have made the movie at all. |
Tom Reingold
Supporter
Username: Noglider
Post Number: 13928
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 3:08 pm: |
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youandtheboys, are you saying that the only worthy messages are those that can't make any money?
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MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3609
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 3:18 pm: |
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Nope. If they can make oodles of money and convey a meaningful message or broaden the audiences horizons in some way, more power to them. But those types of films are few and far between, and that's rarely the desire or intent. I'm saying "Hollywood" is all about money, first and foremost. The majority of films that come out of Hollywood are meant to "entertain," not educate, enlighten, inform. A good majority of movies that are meant to "entertain" barely even do that.
This movie has no "message." It is a fictional, fact-based, recreation of an actual event. There is no deeper meaning implied. There is no lesson learned. We all know what a horrible day it was because we "were there." |
Tom Reingold
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Username: Noglider
Post Number: 13929
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 3:20 pm: |
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You haven't seen the movie, you plan not to see it, and you're sure you know what is in it and what's not in it? You're sure of what people will take from it?
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dave23
Citizen
Username: Dave23
Post Number: 1699
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 3:21 pm: |
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Matt Seitz has an interesting take on it, particularly about the lauding critics who write their piece soon after seeing the film.
http://www.nypress.com/19/17/news&columns/MattZollerSeitz.cfm |
mem
Citizen
Username: Mem
Post Number: 6116
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 3:31 pm: |
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I heard the trailer on the news in my car the other day. My reaction was so physical I had to pull over, and I'm still not right two days later.
No way I could take watching that movie, or any of them, I still can't look at 9/11 visuals - we have to change channels, etc. SO thinks it should have been made so people won't forget. I wish I couldn't remember.
It's even hard to post this - I think I am having a phase.
To each his/her own though. |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3610
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 4:00 pm: |
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I'm only talking about my feelings about this movie. I'm not speculating about other people's feelings about the movie. Surely you understand the distinction, Tom. Or are you just playing devils advocate with me? Anything the people might "take from it" was already "taken", in spades, from that horrible day.
Dave23, thanks for that link. I think that review says a lot of what I feel. And he saw the movie! |
Tom Reingold
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Username: Noglider
Post Number: 13935
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 4:21 pm: |
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Good points. Thanks.
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MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3612
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 4:30 pm: |
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I'm with you mem. I guess it's kind of the way our grandparents felt about Pearl Harbor, or our parents felt about the assassination of JFK. It was horrible enough to live through the day, and the days after, no need to re-create it and live through it again.
There was a quote I read recently from Rudolph Guliani, when he spoke during the sentencing phase of Zackarias Mousaui's (or however you spell it--sorry) trial, wherein he recalled seeing two people jump from the one of the towers holding hands. I saw them too--not in person, thank God, but over and over again on television. Just the mention of it made me cry.
I can only imagine how I would have reacted had I had the misfortune to be blindsided by that movie trailer! |
Duncan
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Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6271
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 4:31 pm: |
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Quote:This movie has no "message." It is a fictional, fact-based, recreation of an actual event. There is no deeper meaning implied. There is no lesson learned. We all know what a horrible day it was because we "were there."
But you can see how this can be read as more than just your opinion, yes? |
MeAndTheBoys
Citizen
Username: Meandtheboys
Post Number: 3613
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 4:57 pm: |
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No. |
Duncan
Supporter
Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6272
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 5:16 pm: |
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Wow. thats telling. Since as stated you haven't even seen it.
Reminds me a lot of the Last Temptation of Christ, or more recently The Passion of the Christ and all the condemnation and "opinion" from people who hadn't seen the film. And to preempt the obvious, I don't think that because 9/11 happenend to us in our lifetime that it somehow makes it different. It is an opinion based soley on personal reaction to what you think something is about. And there is nothing wrong with that. |
SoOrLady
Citizen
Username: Soorlady
Post Number: 3272
Registered: 9-2003
| | Posted on Friday, April 28, 2006 - 5:36 pm: |
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I think it's just personal because we lived through the horror and some of us know people who didn't make it home that night. The further you get from the NYmetropolitan area, the less the emotion felt. We were in Baltimore a few weeks after 9/11 and there is a tall (maybe 10 stories) building called The World Trade Center at the Harborplace. Overhearing people talking casually about 9/11 as they looked at this building hurt - a lot. Still does, always will. I have no desire to see the movie - it will always be "too soon" for me. I'm like that about Vietnam War movies too. |
Buzzsaw
Citizen
Username: Buzzsaw
Post Number: 4603
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2006 - 8:03 am: |
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I am sure this movie was done w/ taste. From what I have read about the director and a few of his comments - his heart seems in the right place (if that is possible for someone from hollywood). I think there are some people that might need to be reminded about what happened 5 years ago. I noticed that some comedy feature film had a few terrorism jokes featured on the commercial. Not sure the TIME part of the (tradgedy+time=comedy) formula is up yet.......
As for me. I saw the comercial and felt really sick and panicy. I have no need to relive any of the emotions from that period of my life. From time to time the fear seeps through the cracks.....but it took me a long time to get myself to where I am now (emotionally).
I have no doubt that these two summer films will bring an onslaught of 9/11 themed films w/ varying taste and compassion.
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mlj
Citizen
Username: Mlj
Post Number: 211
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2006 - 12:05 pm: |
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Happened to see something briefly on the news late last night that the movie was not well attended by the public. Wonder how it will do, overall. |
ess
Citizen
Username: Ess
Post Number: 1857
Registered: 11-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2006 - 1:26 pm: |
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There was a man on that plane who both went to college with me and was a childhood friend/training buddy of a close friend of mine. In that way, I feel a personal sorrow from the downing of that plane.
I don't know if the movie is "accurate" or not. I don't know if it is too soon to see it, or if there is ever a good time to see it, or even if it is totally necessary to make movies out of the events of that most tragic day.
JGA makes a good point. There were people on that plane who were heroic, and their actions likely averted an even bigger tragedy (as if tragedy could take a modifier).
Personally, even seeing a trailer, reading a review, or even reading this discussion thread brings back painful, sorrow-filled memories. Perhaps this movie has been made to honor the lives and efforts of those who perished. But I agree with Mem -- I will never forget the events of that day. |
Duncan
Supporter
Username: Duncanrogers
Post Number: 6275
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2006 - 1:53 pm: |
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mlj..I would guess that it will do well. When people read the reviews and the middle of the country engages their morbid interest it will likely do well. But since it only officially opened last night, there are no hard numbers out yet. By Monday, and not counting the Tribeca event, there will be box office numbers that will be dependent on the number of screens it was released to and, perhaps more interestingly, where it was released.
It was made for relatively small money for a "hollywood" movie, so investors are likely to make their money back cause we all know that that is all making movies is about, right?  |
Deidra
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Username: Deidralynn
Post Number: 549
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, April 29, 2006 - 9:22 pm: |
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When I saw the trailers and stories on news shows (ie. today) for this film, I had such a weird feeling....like, "why now"? I don't turn away but I look in amazement at the actors who are playing these roles. My feeling is the only way to show this event on film is in documentary form. I don't want to see an actor playing Todd Beamer, and saying his words. 9/11 cut me so deep that I will honor all of the heroes of that day by not viewing this film - and this "hollywood version" will not be part of my healing process. |
ess
Citizen
Username: Ess
Post Number: 1860
Registered: 11-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 12:31 am: |
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Deidra, interesting point. See below.
I saw United 93 tonight (last night, technically). It was powerful, intense, painful, gutwrenching, and sad beyond belief. I did not see this as a "Hollywood version" of the events. I saw it as a testimony to those on the ground who were trying to help and those on the plane who would not sit back and do nothing.
Deidra mentioned that she did not want to see an actor playing Todd Beamer. Yet, I saw this movie with my friend who grew up with Jeremy Glick. She said that seeing this movie, and the actor portraying him, was like seeing Jeremy one more time.
Though I knew what would happen at the end, I spent the beginning of the film wishing the plane would turn around and not take off. I was riveted, although there were plenty of scenes I simply could not watch. The theater -- which was mostly filled -- was completely silent, save for sniffles and choking sobs.
I don't know if I am glad that I saw it. I would say with certainty that watching this movie was in no way disrespectful to those who died on September 11, 2001. The passengers on United 93 were portrayed respectfully and heroically.
Maybe it was like ripping the Band-Aid off of a wound that hasn't quite healed. But it was not distasteful. |
Travis
Citizen
Username: Travis
Post Number: 407
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 9:06 am: |
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I think it's important that this film be made, and especially be made now.
This country is a very very different country now than it was five years ago. I doubt that anyone from the "Greatest Generation" or before would recognize this country, if you had a time machine and could bring them forward to our age.
The pivotal event around which the country changed is fading into popular myth. The very phrase "9/11" reduces the whole tragedy to a marketing logo.
From what I've heard, the film is made in documentary style, it is not a Bruckheimer/Silver fest of histrionics and soaring music. I hope that's true. I dread the Oliver Stone movie, if it is like his earlier movies it could do a lot of damage. Frankly I'm not sure I could think of a worse director to make a movie about, yes, 9/11.
I think it is important that the country be reminded of the events of that day, especially the people who died, and then think quietly about whether our actions as a nation in the last five years have duly honored the sacrifices of the people who died that day.
There are some things that are more important than the rising price of gasoline. |
greenetree
Supporter
Username: Greenetree
Post Number: 7468
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 10:34 am: |
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We had an intense discussion about this last night. What was amazing is that we all remember every single detail of those days. Our best friend who had a breakfast meeting at Windows on the World that morning, but got called out to the NJ office on an emergency instead. His wife talking to him on the phone watching the second plant hit from thier southern exposure apartment window 20 blocks up. Him taking 3 days to be able to get back across the GWB. TS losing the argument about who was running later and had to feed the kitten, missing her train and watching the planes hit instead of being in the WTC.
Our friends getting the phone call that the firefighter friend they'd BBQed with on Sunday was missing. Was it the same BBQ as Mem's? Or were there thousands of those friend and family gatherings that took place on Sunday, where no one knew it would be the last time they'd be together.
I don't question the heroism of what happened that day. I believe that it is well made and may be a healing experience for some. But I am with those who feel like they experienced it the first time and don't want to go thru it again.
I also realize that TS is thinking about seeing it because she went numb and slept for two days and is now ready to process the whole thing. |
Project 37
Citizen
Username: Project37
Post Number: 66
Registered: 3-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 10:49 am: |
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I'm in the "not interested" camp, mainly because I can't see the point in a film that recreates a series of recent events that have already been beyond well and truly documented.
I'd be even less interested in a propaganda-style film that over-dramatizes the circumstances and individuals involved. Anyone remember the Jessica Lynch movie?
What's more, it's not even the first movie on this topic! Is the Hollywood version "better" than the made-for-TV one? Or just bigger?
If the film's trailer (the sole purpose of which is to entice me to spend money on seeing it) does nothing for me, I doubt the movie itself will break any new ground. I don't need a re-enactment to be convinced of the emotional horror involved and there are no new facts to depict. So, what exactly is the point?
No offense meant to those that feel compelled to see it. I'm just clearly not in the target demographic. |
drewdix
Citizen
Username: Drewdix
Post Number: 1168
Registered: 7-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 10:29 pm: |
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No thanks.
Saw it all ( as many others did) from my 9th fl office on 25th St.
that was, as ess says, " powerful, intense, painful, gutwrenching, and sad beyond belief".
I had to help many of my employees through it that day, and beyond. Not to mention my own therapy.
You want to see it, go ahead-- but you'd have a task making me understand why. Art doesn't justify it for me.
Ask me in 25 years. |
Tom Reingold
Supporter
Username: Noglider
Post Number: 13945
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 10:46 pm: |
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I thoroughly respect those who don't want to see the film. But that's a different statement than the one that says that no one should have made it.
I haven't decided if I want to see it.
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Just The Aunt
Supporter
Username: Auntof13
Post Number: 4859
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 11:08 pm: |
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Is Opening Week Too Soon To See A 9/11 Movie?
By Marissa Springer
April 26, 2006 | Issue 42•17
Has enough time passed since we first witnessed the awful event of the United 93 trailer to confront the full-length movie of United 93 in its opening week?
April 4, 2006 was the day Americans learned about the existence of United 93 by viewing the new preview. And in that moment, frozen in time, what had once seemed impossible—a filmed reenactment of the events of 9/11—became all too frighteningly real.
Millions of Americans went about their daily concerns that fateful day, unaware that our lives as movie-watchers were about to change forever. We would watch in terror on April 28, the film's release date, suspending our disbelief as best we could, unable to face the reality that a feature-length film about the terrorist attacks on America had indeed taken place before our eyes.
Are we ready to relive the most dramatized strike on American soil since the movie Pearl Harbor? Or will United 93 stir up the deep, unresolved feelings we've had bottled up for the last three weeks or so?
Maybe these questions would be easier for me to answer if I hadn't known one of the gaffers from the movie about that flight.
For me, opening week may prove to be too soon. I may have to wait till the second or third week of its release.
Yet we must remember the brave actors and actresses who boarded United 93's commercial-airliner set, whose artistic sacrifice ultimately cost them months of their lives, and ask ourselves what they would have wanted. Wouldn't they have wanted us to see the movie on the opening day? Wouldn't they have wanted this movie to have the highest possible first-weekend gross?
Director Paul Greengrass, for example, has been said to be suffering from post-production-stress disorder.
It could be argued that this is a time for all American moviegoers to come together and stand united in support of the filmmaking heroes who stood up when this project was greenlit and said, "Let's roll."
But for some of us, it would be easier to pretend its theatrical release had never happened and wait until United 93 makes its way to DVD in a couple of months.
Am I taking my freedom to see this movie for granted? After all, the men and women involved in this filmed catastrophe didn't have the choice to walk off the set. They were just extras in the tragedy, and exercising such freedom would have ended their careers then and there.
It just goes to show you that life is precious, and that one never knows when one's last moments on camera will come.
Regardless of when or where I ultimately see this film, one thing remains certain: We live in a post-United 93 world now, and as American moviegoers it is our duty to remain vigilant in hopes of preventing these events, or a sequel to them, from ever happening again
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ken (the other one)
Citizen
Username: Ken
Post Number: 398
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 11:46 pm: |
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Excellent!! |
Just The Aunt
Supporter
Username: Auntof13
Post Number: 4860
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Monday, May 1, 2006 - 12:16 am: |
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A friend told me something interesting tonight. He said the flight took off late as it was. He said another 5 or so minutes and the plane never would have left the ground because by thenthe first plane had already hit the first Tower.
I didn't know anyone on Flight 93. I did know more then 1/2 dozen people who lost their lives in the Twin Towers. From most of the reviews I've read the movie did open up the wounds; but people felt it was an important movie to see. From what my friend who spoke with many involved in the making of the movie, as well as families who lost loved ones on Flight 93. The director had permission from a family member of every person who lost their live on the flight. Many of the family members were at the opening last week. They believe this movie is a tribute to their loved ones.
I told some of my friends about seeing the other movie about Flight 93 a few weeks ago on A and E. When I saw it was on again yesterday I called or emailed them. Saw a couple of these friends tonight who said they watched the A and E movie and it really made them think. We all plan to go see the one in the theaters next weekend.
I hope if Godforbid anything like this ever happens again and I'm on that plan, I have the courage and wits about me to try to attempt what those on Flight 93 did. As I said in a post yesterday, if it weren't for the passengers on the plane, many more people would have lost their lives.
This movie won't be for everyone, and I don't think we should try to be changing the minds of those who feel the movie shouldn't have been made. If I didn't know those who lost their lived approved of the movie, I wouldn't go myself. However, as I said the other day, I will not be going to the one about the Towers because the families of the two firemen the movie revolves around were tricked into providing information to those involved with the movie. They did not consent to the movie being made.
I also would hope theaters would refrain from showing previews for either of the 9.11 related movies. I don't know how true this is but I thought I heard many theaters were only showing priviews with R rated movies. I know there was one when we went to see Lucky Sleven.
Foot note: One of my friends told me the movies finished 2nd at the box office this weekend. One of the news stations said it finished first. Anyone know? |
ess
Citizen
Username: Ess
Post Number: 1868
Registered: 11-2001
| | Posted on Monday, May 1, 2006 - 12:40 am: |
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Very eloquently said, JTA. I really do agree that the movie was a tribute to those on the plane. It's true that it is not for everyone, and it is true that it is difficult to revisit the events of that day.
The movie did, btw, show that the flight was on the runway for a long time and had taken off late.
Incidentally, the Millburn movie theater posted a sign at the ticket window noting that previews for United 93 would be shown before The Sentinel.
As to your footnote, I believe that it finished the weekend 2nd at the box office, but was only shown on half the screens as the number one movie. |
Gregor Samsa
Citizen
Username: Oldsctls67
Post Number: 505
Registered: 11-2002
| | Posted on Monday, May 1, 2006 - 2:27 am: |
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I went to college down in Virginia with Jeremy Glick's brothr Jonah. I knew him pretty well because we were from adjacent homwtowns in NJ. I grew up in Kinnelon, he was from West Milford. I also met his parents once or twice, but never Jeremy. ANyway, I have not yer seen this movie, but I plan to simply because I consider the people on that plane to be heroes, and it is a way to honor their memory to tell their story. Many people from all walks of life were heroes that day and I have always drawn inspiration from their stories; inspiration to do more with my own time on this earth than be a droning materialistic yuppie. There are reminders out there of 9/11 every day. I work in Newark, so every time I see a low-flying plane I find myself quickly scanning the sky to make sure it's on some time of a landing pattern. Seeing a movie isn't going to bring back a flood of bad memories to me...there's alrady enough stuff out there to do that. |
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