Of course. However, Sam, as an official reviewer has an additional responsiblitiy. Someone lurking might see his review next to a "HIGHLY RECOMMENDED" review and miss Brokeback because he/she infers BbM isn't *that* great.
And that "obligation" is to "sugar-coat" his opinion for the review -- with the hope of influencing someone to watch the movie that otherwise might not have?
I love the silver cover. I'm glad they didn't gloat about all the nominations and wins on the cover - they didn't even use the Oscar statuette. The disc art is nice too. I'm hoping for interviews with the cast and a booklet/insert in the special edition.
If it were the other way around and CRASH was the frontrunner and lost to BBM; then it was found out that MANY members refused to watch it there would be such an outcry. RACISM would be cried. Roger Ebert and Oprah would be demanding that rules would be changed and EVERYBODY would have to watch the films from now on. But since it is about Gays anybody who cries foul is a complainer or is whining.
I find it ironic that enough people watched it to give the film the Director Award, Music Award and Screenplay. How do they know Ang's direction or Larry & Dianna's screenplay were worthy of an Award if they did not watch it? Makes no sense whatsoever.
Please DO substantiate that statement. I am REALLY curious about how you came to the finding that "Many Blacks" "know" Crash "was used to deny Brokeback the BP award".
Why don't you do a little internet search for yourself. The information is out there. I don't intentionally make false claims. Prominent members of the Black community spoke immediately after the awards uproar started.
Bradley,
You make an excellent point. Unfortunately, gays are still sitting at the back of the bus. Everyone has gay friends and is *so* aware of racism. How could we dare claim homophobia on their part? It's amazing shocking remarks by Curtis and Borgnine are blatently ignored by the public and media.
I thought I'd offer that cover to lighten the mood. It's getting close to the "danger zone" with all the "Oh yeah? Well my dad can beat up your dad!" comments.