Documentaries!

There is something about the true feel of a documentary. They were the first reality shows. The first documentary I can remember seeing as a child was about fire and its effects on the human body. My parents made a point of sitting with me to watch it since, at that age, fire was as fascinating as Tonka trucks. I remember the show graphically covering everything from accidental house fires to people lighting themselves on fire for religious reasons. The footage was sickening and I couldn't sleep for nights. But, it was also fascinating and taught me a great deal about fire and why it shouldn't be taken lightly. The lives of the fire victims were chronicled as they struggled to survive. Documentaries can change your life. From Scared Straight (1978) to Defending Our Lives (1993) to Bowling For Columbine (2002), I learned something from each one. But, you should always remember that artistic privledges are usually taken utilizing the editing process. As long as you don't take the story as complete truth, documentaries can be eye opening and extremely entertaining. The Yes Men (2003) is one of my favorites but I don't now believe that the World Trade Organization is in bed with the devil. But, it did change my mind on some issues of social reform and the aggressive tactic of the WTO. Michael Moore makes terrific documentaries. Roger and Me (1989) is also one of my favorites. But, Michael Moore knows how to tell a good story, just not the whole story. But, that's o.k., keep them coming and I'll keep watching!