But The Critics Gave it Bad Reviews!

A friend of mine, trying to ridicule the movie (without having seen it or having any interest in seeing it), pointed out that "Rotten Tomatoes" gave this movie it's worst ever critics rating. OH NO! Not the CRITI CS!  Those same critics gave The Piano excellent reviews, and let's not get me started there.  The same site acknowledges that closer to 90% of those who have seen it loved it.

Finally, my review of Part 1 of the movie adaptation of Ayn Rand's capitalist opus, Atlas Shrugged.

Having recently finished my first re-read of this book in 17 years, I wanted to be certain to see this movie opening weekend.  It's not the most masterfully written book.  The dialogue doesn't flow.  It's exaggerated to make a point.  It was DESIGNED to make that point, and did it ever. 

Having actually read the early reviews I didn't have high expectations regarding the acting, cinematography, etc.  To say I was pleasantly surprised is an understatement.  It was actually very well presented.  The acting was a notch above ABC Family, but since I expected OWN or Lifetime, this was a big improvement.  As the movie moved along the acting actually improved.  Like watching a play on opening night where the actors are a bit tense, but as the play progresses they relax and let the rehearsals and practice carry them through.  Hell, even the score was well done. 

Having said all of that, let me now say, it didn't matter.  It could have been acted by sock puppets and had they kept the message intact it would have been wonderful.  They kept the message intact.  What is the message though?  Some people, I fear, have mistaken it.  The message is not "Only those super-successful producers of the world are important."  Far from it.  The point of the movie, of the book, the underlying message is to be the best producer you can be, in whatever productive capacity you can find and fill, not for the benefit of society, not for your family and especially not for your Government.  Do it for the love of yourself and be proud of it. 

I want to encourage all of you, go out and see this movie.  It started out in only 300 theaters and will be expanded to 1000 or more by the end of May.  Go see the movie.  I believe you will be glad you did.