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I'd just like to touch on the criticism of Robert Downey Jr's role in "Tropic Thunder" that I just heard on the show. I'm sure that we can all agree that the use of blackface in film is an offensive anachronism. I have no intention of arguing against this. However, as they are wont to do in cases of edgy pop culture, the media has jumped on this and missed critical information about his role.
Downey is playing a white, Australian method actor who has undertaken a role in a film within a film. I'm disappointed to find that the news (and even this program) missed the point of the role. They make it sound like the movie studio selected Downey as the best actor to play a black role and that he beat out a group of actors who are actually black. Downey is satirizing a method actor who believe himself to be so talented that he can perform any role, regardless of ethnicity.

posted 4 years, 9 months ago
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Despite Portland's secular reputation, it's still difficult for me to admit to people that I am a atheist. I have been told that I am a very kind and generous person but, when I tell them that I have no religious affiliation, they often respond with "I'll pray for you." I resent the idea that I am somehow morally inferior just because I do not adhere to any religious doctrine. Is it really so hard to believe that a person can be "moral" without the fear of a wrathful deity?

posted 4 years, 10 months ago
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