Mel Gibson
As an actor, writer and a director he is an incredible talent. There’s no doubt about it. I’ve enjoyed many of his films. I wouldn’t go as far to say that I’m a big fan because he’s not in that group of actors whose work that I admire so much I put in effort to see their films. That being said, it’s pretty low for these entertainment reporters to ask Mel about his drunken hateful tirade in ’06. He apologized for it. I don’t know what else he can say or do about it. It happened over three years ago and since then he hasn’t said anything offensive and vile. These reporters are baiting him because they want to see him go off, it’s so transparent and sleazy. I don’t blame him for getting annoyed at them and even calling one an asshole.
Now as a man, Mel clearly has issues, who doesn't? Even before that night in ‘06 he has said other offensive things that he later expressed regret over. That drunken tirade either made him do one of two things, he either reformed or he learned to keep those views to himself. We don’t know what is in his mind and heart. The optimist in me gives him the benefit of the doubt because he reminds me of my father. Except my father has never stopped saying ignorant and racist comments and as far as we know, Mel has.
However, I do understand his haters. In his interview with Diane Sawyer, I don’t believe he was being entirely honest with himself when he blamed his anti-semitic comments on his drunkenness. It’s widely known that his father (Hutton) is a bigot, especially towards Jewish people. Mel has stated that he loves his father but disagrees with him. It’s difficult to believe that Hutton’s ignorant hateful beliefs didn’t influence Mel in some way. I rejected my father’s hatred because I saw how angry and ugly it made him. Hutton could have been calm and persuasive as he shared his offensive and bigoted views at the dinner table to a young Mel. No one wants to really reexamine his/her beliefs to see if a part of him/her is prejudice because that’s one of the worst things a person can be. I understand why Mel wouldn't want to admit to it.
I really do hope Mel has changed since that night. The world becomes a better place whenever someone evolves and overcomes his/her demons. If he hasn’t, it’s unfortunate but it’s his right. He’s an entertainer who stars in and makes movies for us. He’s not a politician who is trying to force his beliefs by writing them into our laws. I don’t see a need to worry or get upset about him, that’s just how I feel.
As moviegoers, it’s our right to not see certain films for whatever reason we choose. Personally, I believe we should only be seeing films to judge the actors performances and not their personal lives or beliefs.
Happy
Really enjoyed what you had to say and think you made some valid points.I try to avoid tabloid crap as much as i can (thats easier said than down) ,it can take away your enjoyment of a film and thats not fair on us film lovers.