Speaking of moral delimas...

Member

There is speculation that Roman Polanski may get a nod from the Academy come March. Of course, you must remember that he was convicted of statutory rape many years back and fled to Paris to avoid his sentence.

Now, I have to say that I truly like his films (yes, even Ninth Gate). But how can a country that finds a man guilty of a crime also consider granting him a very fine and dandy Oscar? Is this just the "culture" of Hollywood that allows him to be at once an outlaw and scoundrel (as many folks in L.A. do think he is a vile and cowardly human being), and a studded director?

And secondly, can you, personally, separate a man from his moral shortcomings and his artistic achievements?

Member

Errr...I mean "dilemas"...

Must...proofread....own...writing....

Queenie

Nothing that applies in "real life" ever applies in Hollywood. Sad, huh?

Oompa Loofah

The Roman Polanski thing has really bothered me. But it seemed like no one
really cared about the Woody Allen and his adopted daughter issue. That was the ultimate in perversion to me. I can't stand to watch him in movies
because of that.

Member

To add to the second part of my question (what was the question?):

Can you separate a man from his moral shortcomings and achievements, whether they be political, artistic, scientific, etc.?

Oompa Loofah

No, I can't. The luster that some people have achieved (whether it's politics, sports, movies, etc) tends to dull for me when they behave immorally.

Frightened Inmate #2

Master of Prissface

I guess I'm the odd (wo)man here then. I tend to think that who you are as a whole person, which I think is what OB is targeting here, is made up of a lot of individual entities: your personality, values, morals, talents & abilities, and the things you aren't so good at. I don't admire you as a person if you're a jackass, even if you're the best (fill in the blank) on the planet, but I can still appreciate your specific talent. Especially if it's something that I don't do well. Allen Iverson is without a doubt a very talented basketball player, but he's a jackass. I can't play BBall worth snot, so I am in awe of that ability, but as a person, I wouldn't want him coaching my kids.

Polanski and Allen are both a little twisted, IMHO, but that doesn't lessen their talents as artists/directors. Would I want my kids looking to them as role models, or do I? Of course not. As far as the Oscar, that's about his talent as a director, not his character as a person. If it was, hardly anyone in Hollyweird would be worthy of the award. Wink

Member

Master of Prissface

Now if it was Man of The Year or something like that, I'd probably think twice.....

Adjunct

He should not be honored period. If he faced his trial like a man and did not run like a scared dog maybe. No way it tarnishes the award if he gets it.

Member

Member

I think you can separate the person and their shortcomings from their talents. There are certain aspects in all of our moral fiber and character and talents that we are proud of, and others we are more happy to keep hidden away.

I think the fat that he ran away rather than face trial says as much as the crime for which he was indicted, but he did make some damn fine films.

Member

I can separate the genius (if that's applicable in this case) with the fallable human being in a person whom I do not know, a la celebrities/political figures/etc. My standards for friends and acquaintances are different and it would not be acceptable.

I don't really care about the individuals who get the Oscars. I don't place value on the awards or the people and don't hold them in higher (or lower) regard because they have received one. Therefore I have no objection to him receiving one; as a matter of fact, I couldn't care less. As genie said, they are not role models for my family or myself.

Frightened Inmate #2

Speaking of moral delimas...

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