Oh how I love to get into politically charged discussions. I've been accused of being opinionated, but really… isn't anyone with an opinion… opinionated? Please. What I have is a way of looking at things that often times clash with others, more out of the fact that I'm not sullied by political correctness (which is for the Intellectually Challenged anyway) and call it as I see it. There are also those who know me who call me wishy-washy because while my opinions are my own, I am always willing to listen to the other side and when I recognize that their opinions may have merit, will look further into the argument. The real reason I do this has nothing to do with being wishy-washy. This trait stems from the fact that I believe that there are no situations that are black and white. When I say that, I mean that there are extenuating circumstances to every situation. All of the facts have to be considered, and these facts change for every situation. And before I say 'situation' agai… (dang it, I did it already!), my example might be - a person kills another person… what should be done about it?

Well, in one case it might be a calculated murder and the death penalty is in order. In another it might be self-defense during a mugging, in which case the killer should be labeled a hero. I realize this is a simplistic example, and in real life the circumstances would go into much more detail, but in the interest of keeping this brief I think you get the idea. Same situation (dang!) + different circumstances = different outcome or opinion.

So what does all of this have to do with the film, "American Gun?" Everything. Because in many way, "American Gun" can be taken as an 'anti-gun' film, whether or not you like the movie will probably be based on your own personal view of the issue. Or, if you’re like me, you won’t allow the film's message to flavor you enjoyment of it. The plot revolves around four stories of people whose lives have been, or will be affected by the owning if a gun. I'd like to say most of the stories end on a high note, but that would not be correct. This is why those who are pro-gun will probably not like the film, and will label it as a political statement.

The reality of "American Gun" is quite different however. What is presents are some different situations (aarggh, that word again…) that show that guns can effect the lives of people from all walks of life, and doesn’t know the boundaries of race or gender. The stories are riveting, and thanks to a stellar cast made up of Marcia Gay Harden, Donald Sutherland, Forest Whitaker, Linda Cardellini and Tony Goldwyn, the performances are terrific.

So in order to show you that a believer in the right to bear arms can like this film, let me say that I am such a believer. But even though I believe that people should be able to own guns if they want to, I don't believe just anyone has that right. I believe that in order to own a gun… any kind if gun, people need to meet some pretty strict criteria. And they should have to periodically have to check in and renew whatever license they earn. As for safety around the house, the thought of some child injuring themselves (mortally or otherwise) terrifies me. But, as in everything else in life, it is the parent's responsibility to teach their children, and watch them closely. Is that a realistic ideal? Probably not, most people are morons… but there should be an I.Q. test to go along with the license. I myself do not have a gun, I have other means in place to protect my family, but the final decision as to whether or not I can ever own a gun rests firmly in my hands and my willingness to stick to whatever criteria is placed upon me. But I'm getting off the point again. Basically I'm just saying that if you are pro-guns and have a closed mind, you won’t like "American Gun", if you're intelligent enough to have an open mind though, you might see it in a different light.

IFC Films and Genius Entertainment are releasing "American Gun" this month on DVD, and while I commend them on the transfer, it is a little light on extra features. There is only a short 'making of'' featurette. Considering the controversies surrounding the subject matter, I really would have enjoyed a commentary from director Aric Avelino.

Directed by: Aric Avelino
Starring: Linda Cardellini, Tony Goldwyn, Marcia Gay Harden, Donald Sutherland, Forest Whitaker
Extras: Making of Featurette
Specifications: Widescreen, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
Studio: IFC Films / Genius Entertainment
Release Date: 9/5/2006
Region 1
MPAA Rating: R (Violent Content and Language)
Website

We'll give American Gun a B-.