Just the Film, Ma’am

For a collaborative art form, film sure turns into a combative sport. Toss baby-eating egos and monstrous amounts of money into any mix and — voila! War. Same holds true in the press. Journies and celebs throw mud over the fence, always blaming the other for the mess.  

Which confuses the hell out of me. Aren’t we supposed to be on the same side? Isn’t the point of our relationship allowing audiences a peek behind the film industry curtain?  

I figure, as a journalist, I’m a mediator between the film and the fan. Respect both sides — defend each party if they’re being treated unfairly or slap them if they’re being ridiculous. Well. That should be my job. But most editors like to protect the reputation of their publication. 

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why we blog. 

This week, both sides get a slap upside the head. Why? The absolute, hands-down foolishness of the Brangelina baby pictures.  

A. People, people, people. All babies look the same. Wrinkly and confused. ‘Nuff said.

B. Brad and Angelina. Really? You need a ten page magazine spread about your family? You chose to be in the film business. Not your kids.

C. Both sides. WHY do we consider this news? Congratulations. She gave birth. So have millions of other women. Can we get back to talking about the films now? 

We’ve all picked up tabloids and flipped through them. Me included. But I find them offensive. As a journalist, as a person, and as a film-lover. There are so many things I don’t want to know about an actor as I watch them on screen. Facts I’ll never be able to wipe from my mind.  

So let’s get back to talking about the work. Please.