Monday, March 31, 2008

Horton Hears a Who

I haven't seen this movie yet, but thought I'd mention one aspect which you may want to know before going to see this movie. I've heard from several reliable sources that this movie goes out of its way to portray homeschooling in a negative fashion.

My suggestion: don't make a big fuss or a boycott; that often draws more attention to a movie (and movie-makers LOVE attention!). The best remedy, I think, is watching something else instead.

6 comments:

Charlotte (WaltzingM) said...

I heard that same kerfuffle but I spoke to my SIL who was homeschooled herself and who enjoyed the movie. She said that the offending line only happens once in the movie when the kangaroo mother explains that her son is "pouch schooled" with a very smug attitude. She wasn't bothered by it because she said that she doesn't know any homeschoolers like that. She believes that the kangaroo mom was also a feminist and an atheist (apparently there is a line about not believing in anything bigger than herself) and really doesn't reflect the majority of homeschooling moms out there.

I have not seen the movie but here are the issues I have:

1) Nothing in Hollywood happens accidentally. Everything is a choice! They chose the words "pouch schooled" for a reason and I have a feeling, I won't like their reasons.

2) Some might interpret her character to be an atheist, but I have also heard the argument used against homeschoolers that we are selfish and reclusive from society without thinking about what that does to society as a whole; that we are only thinking of ourselves and not the greater good.

I would be curious to hear from others who have seen it.

love2learnmom said...

Thanks, Matilda, that's very helpful. I'd be interested in hearing others' opinions too!

Deb said...

It is so nice to hear someone say there is not need to protest, as it calls attention to the film! We enjoy the old cartoon of Dr. Seuss movies, and thus far, have been unimpressed with the live action versions. It seems so many books-turned-movies have to have an agenda these days.

Richard said...

I saw it over the weekend. It was ok. The kids and wife enjoyed it more than I did.

Matilda described well the "pouch-schooled" scene. Personally, if anyone is offended by it, then it is because they are looking to be offended. I saw it more as a poke against those who would use home schooling as a means of control and indoctrination.

love2learnmom said...

Thanks very much for all the feedback - I appreciate the extra details and opinions! (exactly what I'd hoped for in a somewhat informal blog like this)

Pat R said...

Dr. Seuss is classic, i forgot how much that guy packed into such simple storylines... they didn't add much to the original story either except for the usual Jim Carreyisms.