Enough with the politics -- or at least for this month. One of my other passions is the cinema. The large screen, surround sound, and popcorn, with butter (but not too much lest my fingers get greasy), are all comforting. It is a mini getaway where my wife and I can enjoy each others company and forget about work, and other obligations.
So far we have seen some good movies this year, including Interstellar, Fury, and Guardians of the Galaxy. A lot of action. Even more special effects than the year before. Topics have covered time manipulation, world wars, and comic book heroes. We also recently saw Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part I. It wasn't my favorite but I was touched by Philip Seymour Hoffman's last performance.
A common theme throughout a majority of the films that we have seen this year has been the capability of evil in mankind. Violence, pollution, and greed have been highlighted. Utopian societies with totalitarian leaders hungry for unlimited power is a favorite -- Divergent and Hunger Games.
There have been numerous films that are lighthearted. Do not get me wrong. Plenty of comedies and children-focused movies have graced the box office.
But of the top ten highest grossing films, eight have been about destruction. Moviegoers thirst for ruin. Godzilla grossed over 200 million. I forget how many cities were trampled upon.
Interstellar too, perhaps my favorite, was a perfect example of a world gone awry because of the actions of men. Earth was dying, because of the stewardship of humans, and the only hope to survive was Matthew McConaughey -- a resourceful astronaut and pilot. Even he was almost thwarted by a surprise actor who put his own interests ahead of the entire planet. One man nearly caused the extinction of man.
With every evil plot, there is the triumph of good men and women. Each movie that has shown great malevolence has also shown the powerful force of love. Take Interstellar, for example. The one constant motivation for the protagonist was the deep bond with his daughter. Similarly, Hunger Games, with its female protagonist, relies upon the personal affection that the character has with the other victors. The rebellion is collateral to her wanting to keep her family and friends safe.
Away from the theaters, we live in challenging times: civil war in a number of regions, Islamist terrorism in Iraq, divisive partisanship at home with biting disrespect. Film plays a part in our ability to deal with these negative stories bombarding our homes.
The movies also remind us of what is really important. Despite the wickedness in men, good will always prevail if we remember the golden rule. Strive to serve those around us no matter the cost. Be prepared to sacrifice your own interests if it will help those you love. As I sit next to my wife at the theatre, I am optimistic. The world can get ugly, but there is too much beauty in it to be afraid.
