Do you find it uncomfortable to watch a movie with characters using bigoted hate speech?
I’m watching a movie from 1999 called Human Traffic. I have noticed quite a lot of homophobic (anti-gay) use of language taunted towards some of the other characters. Along with the emasculation of a male character based on his lack of performing abilities or possible ED. I know back in the 90s many people did make a joke out of men with ED. But it’s such a serious medical condition and I don’t think it’s ethical to be joking about it. Nor do I think it is particularly healthy to a man’s confidence when such jokes are made.
Now let me stress I support freedom of speech. So anyone can make a movie with characters saying whatever they want as far as I’m concerned. But that doesn’t mean I have to like it or value such a movie as a piece of art.
What are your thoughts on this?
Observing members:
0
Composing members:
0
18 Answers
Sometimes, I suppose. It’s drama. These characterizations you mention are quite often meant to exemplify an asshole. What would drama be without tension? I would hate to be writer and have my hands tied in such a way as to not be able to develop a character in any way I wish.
I like Beavis and Butthead. So depends.
No.
I don’t allow my “feelings” to be manipulated by other individuals, parties or content.
Yes, but if it’s a period piece—set in the ‘50s, say—I prefer the language to be accurate, not white-washed.
Every movie will upset someone. The important thing is the intent of the film. If it’s representing how young men behaved and spoke in a particular place twenty years ago then you shouldn’t feel too uncomfortable. Just be glad society has moved on from those days.
I try to recognize the source and overlook it.
Generally no. Such characters are usually suppose to earn the ire of the viewer. I’d hate it if, say a character who’s suppose to be a neo-nazi was written to only say “African-Americans” instead of “niggers” because the writers didn’t want to offend anyone. The character’s suppose to be offensive, that’s the point.
Thanks guys, great answers. And I actually agree with you all on this. Very well said, all of you.
I love vulgar movies. I’m a huge Tarantino fan.
As long as it’s fiction, who cares.
^ I bet Tipper Gore cares.
It depends on whether the story is any good. A while back I watched a flick about Sleeping Beauty. I was offended because the prince had his throat exposed. In all of history, up until WW2, a male NEVER appeared with his throat exposed. He might take off his shirt, but he still wore a bandanna around his neck. The language was immaculate, but that did not excuse the anachronism.
In all of history? I rather doubt that.
I’m uncomfortable if the movie itself is horrible.
There are many great movies portraying reality for what it is. Then there are the others. But I can live with both, due to the certainty that zeal dedicated to eliminating the “others” will certainly impact the possibility of the former.
Yes and no.]If t is a period piece or historical type film, no, that ;s how they talked back then and we shouldn’t sugar coat it. If it is a modern day film just looking for the sensationalism factor, yes, it could be eliminated with better writing no doubt.
No, it’s called acting, some people fucking thrive on being offended
Answer this question 
Composing members:
0
