MovieChat Forums > Blue State (2008) Discussion > Nobody looks good in this film (minor sp...

Nobody looks good in this film (minor spoilers)

posted 13 years ago by rnorthro14
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I did not find this a particularly good film as no one comes out looking that good; although Anna Paquin's character is the one who at least evokes a modicum of sympathy.

Brekin Meyer's character is a whiny liberal (and I do consider myself more left of center). He is self-indulgent and obsessed. His father is a stereotypical "ditto head" as exemplified by the verbal cries of "next caller" whenever someone says something with which he disagrees. The Canadians, led by Adriana O'Neil's party animal are just creepy in the softly toned anti-Americanism.

As I mentioned before, Anna Paquin at least is able to squeeze out an iota of sympathy. I appreciated her realization that she can't runaway from her past decisions and accept personal responsibility. There is a lesson in this to the liberal establishment. I am all for taking care of those who need help, but the best type of help is empowering those to take care of themselves. Paquin is able to do so for Breckin Meyer's character who also decides maybe its time to dig in, not run away.

In retrospect, I guess I can at least say this film is somewhat thought provoking. As a liberal, I am torn by the limits of American exceptionalism. As an American liberal, I am determined that I can stand for my beliefs and have the hope that with my vote and volunteerism, my ideals and beliefs will be represented. Sure I get frustrated by our branches of government and both political parties who seem to represent only the rich and powerful to the detriment of the middle class. But this is my country. And its worth fighting for.

[–] mandrake62 13 years ago

northro14 Thank you for a thoughtful and intelligent comment on this film and what it brings out. I think the character development in the film is very interesting. Once they get out of their respective bubbles and see the world and particularly the unfair and cavalier way their fellows in Canada characterize America does seem to shock them and get them into break out of that bubble.

I think this film may give those who see it something to think about and maybe reassess as did the American in the log cabin. "I did it to save my ass".

I too liked the character of the girl. It was fascinating to see how well she could take care of herself and her self reliance. Can't help but feel some of that was due to her military training that may have made her a more disciplined person. However, I don't recall that she ever explained why she joined the Army in the first place. That she was in the Army and AWOL was kind of a surprise.

[–] GenXDude 12 years ago

morthro14. THANK YOU! I'm a center-left independent (I don't really like to call myself a democrat), but I tend to side with democrats more often. Honestly if he wasn't happy with Bush: SUCK IT UP! I mean a democrat got in four years later anyway.

The part with the dad was a bit obnoxious, but I can understand his views in regards towards their other son in Iraq. Not saying their weren't any democrats or liberals whose son's and daughters were over there.

I think they exaggerated the hell out of Canada. And if I'm in Canada, the last thing I want to do is *beep* curling! You best be taking me to a hockey game.