Review: Film: Trumbo, by Julie Renee Phelan

Thumps from 1 to 5: Thumps of 5.

            Yes the film, Trumbo is riveting; it is an important historical drama about James Dalton Trumbo, a screenwriter, who would not provide testimony when brought before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1947, and was therefore subsequently blacklisted. To be blacklisted is to be denied your civil rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The United States government denied Trumbo his civil rights by not allowing him to work. If someone hired him, the government would call his employer, and Trumbo would be fired. Our government did not appreciate Trumbo because he provided ideas outside the realm of the ruling majority. As the ruling majority often does, they denied Trumbo his right to life, which affected not only Trumbo, but all those whom Trumbo loved, most especially his family. It is ironic that there was actually a committee, which included as part of its name, the word “Un-American,” and it sought to stifle the active participation of different ideas. What would our founding father's think? I have learned that to bring forth new points of view is not only the foundation upon which our country was built, but also, seeks to improve the lives of our citizens. I believe the only Un-American things was the Committee. Isn't it a shame that once again our government is the personificaion of the saying, “do as I say, not as I do?”

            As well it should, this film will receive numerous nods from the Academy, Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor; you must watch John Goodman give the performance of his life, and Best Supporting Actress. Watch out Spotlight, there is another movie on the horizon. This Oscar season is developing into a real cliff-hanger.