*Editors note – We at TMB send our condolences to all those effected by the events in Sandy Hope. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by the tragedy.
As the country grapples with the shocking events of a mass shooting at an elementary school which left dozens of people dead, (including numerous young children), Hollywood has reacted with sensitivity. We wont blame guns or violence in Hollywood movies in this post. Many Hollywood parties, and premieres, have been postponed or canceled ranging from “Jack Reacher” all the way to “Parental Guidance.” Though this is considered an over reaction on Twitter and blog postings, its better to be restrained then regretful. The nation is grieving and its ideal to show some tact in situations such as this.
Deadline reported that “Django Unchained” is forgoing the “red carpet event” for a more low key event instead for family members and select press. The article went on to say:
“This is not about the slave-era violence in the film; it reflects the fact that nobody is in the mood to celebrate.”
Though that’s an honest assessment, the cancellation should be about the trademark Tarantino gruesome brutality. In the aftermath of the Aurora shooting Harvey Weinstein, the Executive Producer of ‘Django Unchained’ wanted to summit Hollywood directors to discuss violence in movies. Harvey Weinstein has a great opportunity to once again change a release strategy for both the violent “Django Unchained” and the family dramedy “Silver Linings Playbook.” Doing so would be a win-win situation for him and the studio! As distributor to both ‘Django Unchained’ and ‘The Silver Linings Playbook,’ this could work out in their favor. Instead of the lip service, he should put his money where his mouth is.
Here’s an idea for a last minute change to a release schedule:
In regards to the shooting, Taratino’s latest should open in limited release in just a few theaters in select 25-50 markets to qualify for awards. A platform roll out that could occur through January would be a more sensitive approach. Instead of ‘Django Unchained’ T.W.C. should wide release “The Silver Linings Playbook” on Christmas Day. By highlighting the relational love to overcome mental illness, “The Silver Linings Playbook” is the perfect movie for the current discussion on these issues and the “feel good” tone fits the Holidays. Logically, it should open wider on Christmas! (Currently playing in 350 theaters for almost a month, its waiting to be discovered by audiences.) It’s just more appropriate for the season and ‘Django’ can wait a few weeks,People don’t need to be reminded of the violence around the Holidays. Though this is unlikely to occur, this is just something that needs to be considered especially by a man such as Harvey Weinstein who recently admitted he wants the industry to do some soul searching on movie violence.
“Django Unchained” is about slavery, the ugliest chapter of America’s history. It should have the widest release possible because it’s a subject that’s been ignored for way too long. Of course it’s violent, but the violence is not from assault weapons.
I disagree with this post. On the other hand, I have no gripe with expanding viewership for “Silver Linings Playbook.” Mental illness is another subject this country prefers to ignore.
Silver Linings Playbook is not a family dramedy. It’s rated R.