Crash

 The other day, I was watching a film by Paul Haggis called Crash. This film follows many characters with multiethnic backgrounds whose lives intertwine. Every time I watch Crash, it makes me think about why is there so much controversy when one is dealing with race, ethnicity, religion, and culture. I think this film is a great example of real life individuals because each character is prejudice towards another and bases his or her thoughts, actions, and ideas on stereotypes. Everyone no matter who they are has been prejudice. This film is controversial and provocative because it discusses racial and ethnic issues openly. People are generally afraid to speak about this topic and usually talk about it behind closed doors. Crash allows the audience to ask themselves: is it ok to laugh at this scene? Why did I question if it is ok to laugh? It forces one to really reflect on one self and see where do I stand in this issue.

Talking about racism has become a taboo because people are so uncomfortable discussing it. Racism occurs when someone is afraid and insecure of someone different. The fear of talking about racism can be harmful because the thoughts and feelings that come from it get build up inside an individual which can become overwhelming. We need to learn to not fear diversity but to embrace it. Racism has become more subtle so for some it does not exist anymore. Racial tensions can be very difficult to live with because it is something everyone deals with everyday. I liked how the film did not have "good" and "bad" characters because every character had a pretty and ugly side. Just like each and every individual that lives has two sides. The way which we perceive things can lead to misunderstandings, which makes us jump into conclusions without even examining the whole picture.

This film is such a great way to talk about race and ethnicity because it challenges the audience and forces them to critically think. Paul Haggis offers solutions towards racism in the 2-disc director's cut edition of Crash. These include: admitting racism exists, stop denying that everyone is different but accept that we are equal, accept racism exists in us, examine ourselves and ask who are we really, and try to help others see it. By informing and getting more comfortable talking about race and ethnicity will relieve the hidden feelings and questions. Only through discussion and education can this topic be understood and solved. I recommend that everyone should watch this film and reflect upon it.

  Here is the link to the theatrical trailer:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEQ_ftkpb18