(I must say that this article is a really, really disappointing response in my opinion from someone who claims to be a faithful member of a Christian church, but I’ll write more on that later)
Kieth Merrill: Dutcher comments showed arrogance
KIETH MERRILL
Richard Dutcher’s “parting words” to Mormon cinema — and with it any lingering allegiance to the LDS Church — would be laughable if it weren’t so tragic. There is an old adage that suggests: “Never dignify stupidity with a response.” I should listen.
But hey! Dutcher flips off the films at the Legacy Theater and those of us who created them.
My pointed retort is at the end of this note — and Dutcher deserves every word.
With his latest tirade, Dutcher has become a wonderfully ugly poster child for the pitfalls of Mormons who want to play in the movie business but don’t take seriously the warnings of scripture, prophets and GOD — that seeking “the honors of men” and “riches of the world” are paths into darkness. Read apostasy. Dutcher’s pompous pronouncement is perfectly timed to spice up my commencement address to the wannabe Mormon filmmakers in the BYU Department of Fine Arts and Communications. [Friday, April 27, 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.]
I can’t wait.
Dutcher has made five movies. One is pretty good. One is OK. The others are mediocre, depending on your tolerance. The “rave reviews” he loves to post on his Web site come from the same folks who praised “The Departed” — but Hollywood and its critics have long since ignored redeeming social value as a criteria of quality and entertainment that inspires as a measure of true brilliance.
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