Essay About First Hollywood Studio Movie And News Reports

Philadelphia
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This movie caused a lot of hoopla when it was released back in 93, for it was the first Hollywood studio movie to fully tackle the subject of AIDS. Now, I dont want to take anything away from the film, because it is still quite entertaining, but it certainly doesnt come off as a groundbreaking film anymore. Even back when it was released, I personally didnt think it was that big of a deal because by that time wed already seen the subject matter covered for years, in news reports, documentaries and independent films; so when PHILADELPHIA finally came along, it seemed like it was just a little overdue What the film does succeed in doing is taking a deep look at a new kind of discrimination that grew as AIDS became more prevalent in the minds of the general public and how some peoples hatred towards gays got even more fueled as this new disease became a harsh and frightening reality in the world. I was a bit surprised to see the quote “An emotional powerhouse!” on the back cover of the DVD because as it does have its share of emotional scenes, theyre far from overwhelming and it isnt likely that that is what youll take away from it in the end. The most memorable, powerful scenes, in fact, are those awkward moments that are examined as we see how people around Andrew react upon learning of his illness – the most famous ones being Washingtons reaction to Hanks in his office and the confrontation in the public library between Hanks and an employee there. Demme also does an admirable job in making the City of Brotherly Love a real presence in the movie. The opening credit sequence is a beautiful montage of all the great sights of the city and its people, giving us a real sense of the metropolis. From the rich neighborhoods to the slums, from the working class to the homeless sleeping on the streets – it all plays wonderfully as we witness many of them waving to the camera, all from different backgrounds, cultures and races, and all very proud to be Philadelphians. To me, its one of the best opening credit sequences in recent memory. Bruce Springsteens “Streets of Philadelphia” plays over it all and its still as emotionally involving as it was back when it was ruling the airwaves in 93. The song is bookended nicely by Neil Youngs equally moving “Philadelphia” for the movies final sequence featuring home videos of Beckett as a child, playing