Dakota Fanning’s Disturbing Houndog Scene
I can’t think of anything sadder, more shameful or more disturbing in our society than child abuse.
And even though Ms. Fanning is an actress and is “just playing a character”, in her upcoming movie Hounddog, if I were her mother or any other responsible adult involved with the film, would NOT have let her play that role.
This whole topic upsets me…but I thought it was important to bring up.
I’m sure if it were 30 years ago, and I was referencing Brooke Sheilds in the movie Pretty Baby, in which she plays a prostitute, I’d be saying the same thing.
There must be thousands of roles out there for 12-year-olds that are poignant, socially significant and beautiful, without having to go down this road.
Tags: Child-Abuse, Child-movie-stars, Dakota-Fanning, RapeRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Fabulous Coffee Break
117 opinions for Dakota Fanning’s Disturbing Houndog Scene
Michelle
Jan 23, 2007 at 4:14 pm
I can’t help but think that her mother has sold her. Yes the scene was all “pretend” but filming something like that can’t help but affect a child–and a child she is. If her mother won’t protect her from adult situations–whether real or staged–what is she good for? How shameful for any mother to sell her daughter’s innocence to further her own ambitions.
Kim
Jan 23, 2007 at 4:17 pm
Hi Michelle,
You’ve stated it exactly how I would have wanted to..I’m not a mom, but I agree 100% with you.
Her mom should be the one who gets a spanking…oh…that’s going to be against the law in California.
otto
Jan 23, 2007 at 4:21 pm
As people begin to actually see this movie, those who chose to condemn the makers of Hounddog before seeing it for themselves and getting all the facts straight are being shown for the idiots they truly are, many continuing to live in denial of the facts.
Sean Hannity is perhaps the best example, as last night he interviewed someone who saw the movie at its premiere at Sundance. I forget the lady’s name, but I believe she was introduced as a conservative District Attorney and a child advocate for 30 years, so Hannity was a bit surprised when she revealed that all the negative claims about Dakota’s infamous rape scene simply aren’t true. According to her, all we see is Dakota from her shoulders on up and the guy’s arm. There is no touching, and the rape is actually achieved through editing tricks, and not on the set as some have claimed. She explained that it occurs more in the viewer’s mind than in the movie.
But Hannity was not satisfied, claiming that what she saw was a “sanitized” version, and that he wanted to see everything that was left on the cutting room floor. Um, right, Sean. You haven’t see the movie, you weren’t involved in the editing process, you weren’t involved in the production whatsoever, yet you somehow know what “really” went on. What a jackass.
But probably the most disturbing evidence of these people’s dangerous mindset is what Catholic League president Bill Donohue, who is pushing for a federal investigation of the film to see if child pornography laws were being violated during shooting, said on CNN yesterday. He said that if this was not Dakota, but some unknown 12-year old actress who was involved in a rape scene, he wouldn’t even bother with it. Unbelievable.
Obviously, this is all about exploiting Dakota to push their agenda, and has nothing whatsoever to do with the a 12-year old being raped onscreen.
Kim
Jan 23, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Hi Otto…
The woman you saw, not actually having seen the entire movie but the scene we are is discussing, was Jeanne Pirro, a New York politician.
And you’re right..it is about exploiting Dakota…which is really what I’m upset about.
Why can’t we let Dakota be 12…why must she be put in a position to have to think about and have feelings and responses about a such a horrifying issue, such as rape…
Tammy
Jan 23, 2007 at 6:21 pm
The saddest part about the whole thing…..is she will probably get an Oscar for it.
Sick world……
Kim
Jan 23, 2007 at 6:45 pm
Hi Tammy,
Yup, you’re right…ugh!
joanne
Jan 24, 2007 at 4:25 am
Oh dear, you people have far to much time on your hands!! there are people dieing in the world, proverty etc! you waste your time talking about a film in which this girl got paid for!!!!
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 7:32 am
Hi Joanne,
I think this post points more to the seriousness of child abuse in our society.
Anthony
Jan 24, 2007 at 8:25 am
I was in an independent film, by a Franklin, MA filmaker 3 years ago in which
an accused murder is found to have been physically and sexually abused as a child,
Andrea Ross 12 years old at the time, played
the young abused girl. Although we didn’t actually show the sexual abuse scenes,
we a alluded to them with cut scenes, fades and dialogue. In no way was Andrea
ever in anyway exposed to anything questionable, and we were able to bring to
light a very disturbing situation. I hope the filmakers didn’t take Dakota’s 12
year old word for it, when determining her ability to mentally handle performing
in such a scene. As mature in her years as she may seem, there has to be a little
concern for what your exposing a child to in asking her to perform such a scene.
I’ll have to peep this flick and then see how I feel. Peep the flick I mentioned
here
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 8:35 am
Hi Anthony,
Thanks for leaving your very sensitive remarks.
Good luck with your career.
erin
Jan 24, 2007 at 11:38 am
In all reality this is disturbing to hear…but i believe that the movie should not be put down for what it’s trying to show. Dakota is brave enough to do such a role, because she knows it’s risky but these type of things happen Every Day…rape happens, unfortunatel. Child rape is outrageously discusting, but so is cannibalism, family’s being slaughtered, and ecs. but movies are made out of it. if she’s not really getting raped (which she’s not) then what’s the big deal? Some people give though out there day forgeting the thought that “this could happen to my child” well maybe this movie is theire enlightenment.
-erin
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 11:50 am
Erin,
That’s not really the point now, is it.
Lori
Jan 24, 2007 at 12:45 pm
PEOPLE.. Its a movie and she is an actress!!!!!
Movie=fantasy as in not real?
If you do not like it, don’t go see it. Simple as that!
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 12:48 pm
Hi Lori,
I think everyone gets that she’s an actress and that the scene is not “real”…that is not the issue.
Derek
Jan 24, 2007 at 5:08 pm
I believe that it is a little bit awkaward for a 12 year old to play that part, but let’s not fool ourselves here. The reason her parents and Dakota wanted to do the movie was for the at least $5 million dollars she got for doing it, not to mention it’s a MOVIE!!
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Amen Derek,
But don’t you think it’s high time in our society for adults to be adults and children to be children?
Ms. Dakota certainly doesn’t need the money.
What might have been uplifting would have been for her to donate her earnings to an organization that counsels abused children.
curious
Jan 24, 2007 at 7:16 pm
Why didn’t anyone make a big deal when the character Issiah, a 7 year old boy, gets raped by his mother’s husband? The character of Issiah was played by Jimmy Bennet who has a long list of credits, in the movie The Heart is Decietful directed by Asia Argento.
erin
Jan 24, 2007 at 7:27 pm
kim,
yes i agree that she should have donated her earnings for the real victims of such discust. But really the point is simple it’s a movie and that’s that, we can’t go off and stop the movie from being made now can we…besides if any mental damage does happen, then we know we can blame the parent…since she does have all legal rights. So if we must point fingers then the fingers get pointed at the mother, but i think dakota should be fine…it’s not a real rape, like others have ACTUALLY been through, and the one’s who have actually been through it have more of a chance of being scard for life…it wasn’t act for them.
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 8:05 pm
Hi Curious…
That’s a great question…I didn’t know about that film…
Kim
Jan 24, 2007 at 8:08 pm
Thanks Erin for clarifying your thoughts.
My only point has been, is there any real reason for asking any young child to expend their feelings, and thoughts and emotions to such a subject matter.
Maybe the film could have been made by the telling of the scene, rather than filming it.
joanne
Jan 25, 2007 at 9:49 am
Wow Kim you are wierd! you clearly have nothing better to do with your time..
Lori, i agree with you!!!
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 10:21 am
Yes Joanne, clearly I have nothing better to do with my time…
This is a blog and everyone is entitled to a point of view.
erin
Jan 25, 2007 at 10:29 am
kim i agree to an extint. Yet things are easier said than done…and if actions really do speak louder than words, then the point will get across…not everyone understands by hearing something…people are individual with different learning styles…and since they’ve decided to use it as a visual…i’m sure alot of people are going to understand just how important of a matter it is rather than hearing how bad it is…i’m sure it will be talked about within the movie…so there’s to positives we can hear and see the truth.
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 10:46 am
Hi Erin,
Thanks again for stopping by…and you have valid points.
I saw a man interviewed on the news last night, who has a daughter…he could barely speak he was so disturbed about what he saw.
So, yes…maybe the picture will do something to help erase this horrifying element from our society.
I think Oprah is already trying to do that.
erin
Jan 25, 2007 at 1:19 pm
For the man i’m sure he was shocked, but who says crime is beautiful? Sometimes the truth is harsh, but if harsh truth is what it takes to get people to understand…then that’s simply what it takes.
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Hi Erin,
Thanks again…yes the truth is harsh…it’s just a shame that this harshness is what it takes to fill movie seats these days.
Karen
Jan 25, 2007 at 3:59 pm
I think it is truly sad when adults can’t agree without name calling. It truly is sad.
Now back to the point . . . I don’t think this girl couldn’t be affected by playing the part. I just don’t see it. I work with teenagers and have for years. They get freaked out about little stuff and things they see.
This is a blog. Blog authors write about things that they think will interest the public. Saying that Kim has nothing better to do than to write about these issues is like saying you have nothing better to do than to read them. If there wasn’t an interest, then she wouldn’t have mentioned it.
Gayla
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:08 pm
In as much as I hate to see Dakota play this part, I do see the need for the “shock factor” in some of what we see.
Just this week my THIRTEEN year old boys came home from school where a TWELVE year old 6th grader is pregnant and by her boyfriend!
As sad as it is, times have changed. Kids are exposed to so much at school, on the playgrounds, on the bus ride home and at the ball park - They’re being forced to grow up far too quickly and unfortunately our entertainment is being forced to “grow up” with them.
And finally, I don’t think it’s that Kim has nothing better to do with her time - as much as it is that she’s in shock - right along with millions of other people - me being right there with her at just how twisted our world is and just what it takes to entertain us anymore.
Just my two cents and observations :)
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:09 pm
Thanks Karen,
Well said…now how about a some “Little Women” to watch!
Trench
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:18 pm
We’ll all be looking back at this when at 21 Dakota Fanning is arrested for holding up a liquor store for crack money.
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:19 pm
Hi Gayla,
Thanks for your support.
You’ve put this nicely…yes, times have changed…when I was twelve my biggest trauma was not having a pair of Frye boots.:).
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:29 pm
Hi Trench…
My husband and I were just talking about just that the other night: kid actors who turn out to be loopy?
Karen
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:42 pm
I was just wondering how much trauma Drew Barrymore suffered from Poltergeist. Then I remembered about her drug problems. Thankfully, she seems to be doing better now.
In my previous comment, I meant “disagree”, not “agree, but you all could probably figure that out.
When I was teaching at a middle school we had a girl that had a baby in 7th grade. In 8th grade she got married!!! Her mom wanted to be rid of her. Then to try to keep her from being a drop-out, the county agreed to let her leave at 12:00 when all her core classes were over. They let her skip out on the electives and all that stuff. Poor girl. I wonder how she’s doing today.
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 4:51 pm
Hey Karen…I was thinking the same about the Exorcist actress…I think she’s a little messed up as a result of that film.
Blog Fabulous - Two Hot Topics: Rosie And Imus
Jan 25, 2007 at 5:37 pm
[…] After my little piece about Dakota Fanning’s film, I should probably just shut up. […]
Christina
Jan 25, 2007 at 6:21 pm
Yes, Dakota is an actress. She is also a child. Since when does being an actress give a child more armor to deal with nasty issues like child rape than ‘regular’ children have? She might be precocious, but that doesn’t protect her.
We walk a fine line every day, trying to shield our children from things they shouldn’t have to deal with at their age, whatever age that might be. Who knows what is to blame when children get pregnant? Is it MTV? Is it latchkey societies? Is it the latest Brooke Sheilds?
Our children are in too much of a hurry to grow up; and parents are hurrying their children along, bowing to marketing pressures that sell children tank tops and sexy underwear, Britney Spears lookalike clothes and what not.
Let our children be children as long as possible. I hope Dakota loves what she does for a living at such a young age. I hope my kid is still playing in the park when he’s 12.
Kellys
Jan 25, 2007 at 7:13 pm
Maybe I am in the minority, but I think she is just too young for a role like this. She is an incredibly talented actress who has phenomenal depth. But I don’t think she needed to do such a grown up role to prove it.
I can’t see how she can be talked through such a traumatic scene and not be exposed to such evil. I have a little girl and would never want to expose her to such an experience if I can protect her from it.
Karen
Jan 25, 2007 at 8:25 pm
I believe “Junk in; junk out.” If you put junk in your mind, then junk is going to be in your mind and come out. I believe she will have negative results from playing this part.
Kim
Jan 25, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Wow, Christina/Kelly/Karen…
You each have added such valuable points to this discussion…you have been able to more clearly exemplify my original reason for posting this…and I’m not even a Mom.
I can’t begin to imagine how difficult it must be for today’s parents to deal with these subjects and to educate and protect their kids.
Thank you.
CMD
Jan 26, 2007 at 2:22 pm
Kim,
Thanks for blogging about this topic. My friend and colleague, Paul Peterson - he played “Jeff” on the old Donna Reed Show” - is working to protect child actors in Hollywood. His non-profit organization, “A Minor Consideration” - serves as a watchdog for children whose parents/guardians/agents/managers get carried away with the “money, opportunity, and celebrity” and in the process forget that the individual is a child, and therefor cannot legally give “informed consent.” In Dakota’s case, the movie was filmed in North Carolina; to quote Paul: “the on-set reality was so bad that a union crew (God bless IATSE) walked off the set.”
I have a copy of the script. I have read it. Suffice it to say that I am praying for Dakota, a 12 year old girl who is in a career where - again, as Paul says of all child actors, “are paid a great deal of money to lie about their feelings and speak other people’s words, and when you are really good at that, as most of us were, the potential for disasterous consequences are compounded by the type of image you’ve projected.”
Just a few thoughts, and thanks again for the blog.
Kim
Jan 26, 2007 at 3:14 pm
CMD,
I’m so glad to hear this…bravo to your friend Paul.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed for some real changes in Hollywood.
Thanks for your kind words.
Kellys
Jan 26, 2007 at 7:39 pm
I heard this guy , or at least his firend, on the Sean Hannity Show the other day and they were extremely concerned. They are the real deal.
Kim
Jan 26, 2007 at 7:51 pm
Hi Kelly…I saw that interview…very disturbing.
Revka
Jan 26, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Hi, Kim,
Karen told me about this post and the discussion so I thought I’d throw my two cents into the ring. :)
“All that is necessary for evil to prevail is for the righteous to do nothing.” (or something along those lines.) Yes, this is a movie; yes, she is an actress; yes, she is ONLY twelve. This IS a big deal because our kids and our culture continually push the envelope, and what we deplore now will be accepted as the norm by the time our kids are our current age. We can rationalize this all we want, but this is not right, and if someone doesn’t say something, it will be accepted as right and set the precedent for worse things in the future. I don’t care how “tastefully” this is protrayed; I personally don’t think rape can ever be portrayed tastefully, particularly when a minor is involved! This is unsuitable, inappropriate, and just plain wrong.
Kim
Jan 26, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Hi Revka,
I’m glad Karen mentioned this topic to you.
As someone who is not a parent (although I am an Aunt of a 12-year old)…I just find that our society needs more opinions on such topics from people like you.
laura
Jan 28, 2007 at 7:05 am
Was there a therapist (who specializes in child abuse)on the set for her?
Or someone filling that role. I realize that parents should be on the set making sure everything is ok….but when that isnt happening, are producers looking out for the interests of their artists?
I am not sure at the age of 12 that I would have been mature enough to realize the difference between rape and simulated rape. Violence is violence, its very easy for it to get out of hand.
I dont know if I would see this movie, but it would definitely make me feel a lot better if I knew that the filmmakers had provided some assistance.
Of course that said, I am sure child actors these days have analysts. But I think this calls for a little more than the usual, no one loves me anymore, ergo I can’t get any work, kind of session.
Kim
Jan 28, 2007 at 8:38 am
Hi Laura,
I don’t know that there was a therapist on the site per se, but I’d heard that the producers set up answer and question type press conferences which included professionals who deal with child abuse.
If you want to know more about what did go on during filming, visit “A Minor Consideration”…quite eye-opening.
rae
Jan 29, 2007 at 10:08 pm
what has happened to the sweet little dakota faanning we used to know.how can you go from doing charolletes web to that.
Kim
Jan 30, 2007 at 7:27 am
Hi Rae,
Thanks for stopping by…I know, that’s the version I always hope to see…
Samantha
Jan 31, 2007 at 8:46 am
hi, i am totally and utterly disgusted with how dakota’s mother let her daughter be apart of something like this.
not only that, but how could any one possible act out a rape on a twelve year old girl; what about the male actor?
Kim
Jan 31, 2007 at 8:54 am
Hi Samantha thanks for stopping by.
I’m in your camp…you know, I couldn’t get my mind around the thought of the male actor…but you have a point.
Laurie
Jan 31, 2007 at 3:31 pm
I’m so glad someone other than me is talking about this. I saw the interview on Hannity and Colmes. I was very upset to hear about this. My concern was Dakota is too young to deal with the emotions of this scene. For her to portray the scene, she had to be informed what it was about. Such images are now in her head and heart. She may be a talented actress, but she’s 12. That’s a young girl by my standards. Not old enough to live with those images and not be scarred.
In another review, I heard that there was nothing more in the rest of the movie where the rape was even mentioned. She never accuses anyone, talks about it to anyone or flashes back to it. So why put it in the movie at all except for pure shock value and sensationalism?
Where has the world come when we find that content entertainment? As far as the youth of today being so much more grown up than youth of the past. Give me a break!! They are growing up too fast because of what they see on tv, movies and hear in music. We as parents have to do our jobs to protect them as long as we can.
Kim
Jan 31, 2007 at 3:39 pm
Amen Laurie, couldn’t have said it better myself…thank you.
CMD
Jan 31, 2007 at 6:45 pm
Laurie,
There are scenes that were filmed for that movie that ended up on the cutting room floor. The public will never see these scenes, yet the 12 year old child who acted in them will carry it with her forever.
Jodi Foster and Brooke Shields - though they may be healthy, happy women today -
endured criminal stalkers as a direct result of their roles in “Taxi Driver” and Pretty Baby.” Ms Foster’s stalker - John Hinkley, Jr. - ended up shooting President Reagan. Ms Shields’ stalker was finally imprisoned in 2000.
We all need to pray for Dakota’s safety.
Kim
Jan 31, 2007 at 9:01 pm
Hi CMD,
Welcome back.
Has our culture always been so obsessed with Hollywood?
rae
Jan 31, 2007 at 9:32 pm
hey i know she shouldnt have done the movie but my main hope is that everything will turn around for dakoa fanning.
EVERYONE PLEASE FORGIVE EVERYONE!!!!!!!!
CMD
Feb 1, 2007 at 8:50 am
Kim,
I think that - from the beginning of time - there has been “interest and fascination” with persons of notoriety. Remember the “Lindbergh” kidnapping in 1935. That literally threw America into a tailspin. Simultaneously, as the film industry grew, and – decades ago when movies started “talking,” the fascination with celebrity shifted to an obsession. As the delivery streams have multiplied (internet, ipod, cell phones, etc), and as our society has become more and more “coarse” as opposed to “refined,” that obsession has taken on new meaning. The consistent failure of adults to say “No” to the exploitation of our children for fame and fortune is a primary thing that defines our society, and I find it heartbreaking.
Paul Peterson has experienced that, can speak to that, and for these reasons has devoted his adult life to the protection of children at risk of exploitation.
Predators, clubs that unite, support and defend predators and the proponents of all types of lascivious behavior – these are all natural conclusions to the exploitation of our children, and ultimately ourselves. To place our children on a movie screen 50 feet wide, in compromising scenes and situations, for the sake of “money and fame,” is criminal. It’s not “Show Art;” it’s “Show Business.”
The “Coogan Law was put in place years ago when child actor Jackie Coogan – once her reached adulthood – learned that his parents had squandered the money he made, and left him broke.
We as adults need to grow up, act like adults, and raise our children in protective, decent, supportive environments. It has become harder and harder to do these days. When Paris Hilton can be famous and celebrated (literally) just because she’s rich and lewd, the country is reached the tip of the iceberg in the dark, logical conclusion for the path it has traveled.
Anyway, I’m rambling, off on a tangent. The answer I have to your question is “Yes” there has always been an obsession; but – in our society - it has grown in direct proportion to the collapse of our integrity and self-respect. That’s my opinion, anyway.
CMD
Feb 1, 2007 at 10:12 am
Kim -
Sorry for the typos in my previous post. I was trying to do too many things at once …
Kim
Feb 1, 2007 at 11:56 am
Hi CMD,
No worries about typos…I am the worst offender.
It’s interesting that you set up your post with this information (thank you, as always)…on this morning’s Today show, they reported on a survey which said that today’s kids (mostly teens) find their primary interests in life to be: money and fame.
I have to wonder, what are some parents teaching their kids??
Tina
Feb 1, 2007 at 4:19 pm
Raise your hand if you have actually SEEN this movie! No one was on the set during filming, so you have no idea how it was shot/edited. From what I’ve seen in interviews, Dakota has a good head on her shoulders, so her mother must be doing something right. I can’t believe a mother that raised a very intelligent, respectful, articulate young lady, would just carelessly sit by and watch her daughter film some boarder line raunchy porn scene. GIMME A BREAK!
Kim
Feb 1, 2007 at 4:45 pm
Hi Tina,
Thank you for stopping by…you bring up some interesting point.
I think, though, that while, no one is disputing that this child (operative word) may be a talented and fine young woman, what is at dispute here is that she is 12.
No matter how “respectful” the crew and staff were around this topic…the question is: WHY should a 12-year-old have to even spend one minute trying to get her little brain around subject matter like this?
p.s…I do believe CMD (above) knows quite a bit about what went on during filming.
Laurie
Feb 2, 2007 at 11:48 am
Just because Dakota Fanning is a professional actor, making millions of dollars per movie, doesn’t mean she’s emotionally capable of handling everything she faces. She’s a professional, NOT an adult. The fact is, it may not be known for some time, years even, how this movie, or any movie for that matter, will affect her psyche. Then it will be too late to avoid it. Her mother’s job is to protect her. I have no problem at all with Dakota herself. She’s a child. It’s her mother I have a problem with.
I read in an earlier post that kids are wearing Brittany Spears clothes. Well HELLO! Not if we, their parents, don’t buy them. My children didn’t pay for their own clothes when they were young. And even when they had their own money, they were still under my roof and my responsibility. The only reason they had a penny was because their dad and I were paying for their necessities. I get really worked up when it comes to parents not doing their jobs.
There was a Bratz doll who was wearing thong underpants. What’s up with that? These dolls are for little girls. Even their toys influence children, not just tv, music, and movies. Parents need to wake up and realize our children’s innocence is slipping away, or being ripped away in some cases. It’s up to us to protect them.
Kim
Feb 2, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Hi Laurie,
Thanks for visiting…you might also like to visit thrifymommy.com and wearyparent.com, here at b5media…I think you’ll like their sensitivity about many issues concerning parents and kids.
I saw the creator of the Bratz line on The Big Idea…I can’t repeat here what I think of this guy…all I can say is that he said on air: “I’ve never received any mail stating that our dolls are slutty.
What does that tell us??
Laurie
Feb 2, 2007 at 3:27 pm
Kim,
I don’t think most people would write a letter. I think they’d just not buy the product. I may have seen the same interview. The man said Bratz were about to surpass Barbie in sales. I guess many parents don’t really care what their kids are influenced by, or at least don’t understand the messages these dolls and their clothes send to our preciuos impressionable young girls.
Karen
Feb 2, 2007 at 4:07 pm
My aunt asked me if I wanted all of her daughter’s Bratz stuff. NO THANK YOU!!! I don’t need any sassy looking dolls in my house. This is the same aunt that’s going to get her daughter the HPV vaccine though.
If you don’t like little girls in thongs, then you should definitely stay away from Abercrombie & Fitch. They market thongs for little girls . . . and many other things that I don’t find appropriate.
Kim: Thanks for mentioning Thrifty Mommy!
Kim
Feb 2, 2007 at 4:20 pm
Hi Laurie,
Glad you’re back…
I was never a Barbie kid, I was more into hotwheels and tonka trucks, myself…seriously…LOL
I had never seen these dolls before that Donnie Dumb-ass interview…and before anyone said one word…I said out loud “these dolls are raunchy”…is that closed minded of me? LOL
Kim
Feb 2, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Hi Karen,
I’ve got your and Wearyparent.com’s back…lol.
Ok…do not get me started…toys are another thing I don’t understand…
I was such a nerd…my favorite toys were etch-o-sketch, blocks and a microscope.
The one doll I did like was Spiderman….no Raggedy Ann.
lauren
Feb 4, 2007 at 1:09 am
I just dont get you people! Would you be saying this if it was a young teen of a different race in a rape scene? has anyone ever seen the movie ” A Time To Kill?” It almost seems like you people are trying to hide the truth about what really goes on in todays world! It is sad and not something to be proud of but it is harsh reality. Honestly tell me what you think of “A Time To Kill” then come back and write a blog about the scene or scenes in that movie.
Kim
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:26 am
Hi Lauren,
I actually did see that movie, and furthermore violence of that nature, no matter what race, creed, color and in this case a 12-year-old-girl, is unacceptable.
Karen
Feb 4, 2007 at 11:13 am
I’m sure people had things to say about “A Time To Kill”, but I don’t think there were blogs around then either. It doesn’t matter what race you are either.
Kim
Feb 4, 2007 at 11:53 am
Yes, there was negative public commentary around that film…and yes there were blogs at that time, but they weren’t a mass medium, as they are today.
And this post is about a particular film.
Karen
Feb 4, 2007 at 11:58 am
I didn’t get internet until around 1999 and I didn’t know about blogs until a few years ago. LOL
Lauren: Nevertheless, Dakota playing this part is an issue. Other children playing these parts has been addressed in the commentary. We’re not saying it doesn’t exist elsewhere or that it’s a “white only” issue. Race isn’t the issue, it’s that a child is playing this part and she will be effected by it.
Kim
Feb 4, 2007 at 1:36 pm
I’ve been quite interested in the blogging scene for quite some time but didn’t start until 2006…, not that I’m any good at it..LOL
Well said Karen–also, through various sources, I have learned that during filming, the crew walked off the set because of the nature of this picture.
lauren
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:25 pm
I agree race is not what you guys are going back and forth on it is about a young girl playing the part of a rape victim at such an age as she is! It is sad and fills me with disgust that this actually happens regardless of age, race, creed, sexual orientation, or what have you! Yes she may be to young to have done the part i dont know it is on the public eye to decide, but since you guys are so focused on just a horrid scene or horrid scenes through out so much why not make an effort to help those that this is really happeneing to ? This is a movie but sadly enough this movie depicts real everyday life!
lauren
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I just have a few more comments before people respond…Is there really a right or wrong answer as to whether Dakota Fanning should have played this part. You can go on all the statistics about how other young actors ended up surely but she is a whole other person and by judging her saying that this movie is basically “setting her up for failure” it sounds more judgemental on the peoples part. Maybe thier own insecurities about how they may do something temselves. It might sound off and wierd but when you really think about it then it just makes you wonder. There is no rigt or wrong answer here.
Kim
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:34 pm
Hi Lauren,
Thanks for returning…I think you bring up a great point…about helping.
We’re focused here on the actress and her well being, not the scene…
Please so let us know what your experience is in helping young victims…we would be very interested to know.
Karen
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:38 pm
I think writing about your disapproval and disgust is a way to help the situation. We could sit idly by and do nothing. A blog post lets the public know what’s going on which will turn people away from seeing the movie and let Hollywood know that we find it unacceptable.
Kim
Feb 4, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Hi Lauren,
It’s true there are no right or wrong answers about any of the subjects on any blog. And I think Karen brings up a good point…it’s possible we ARE helping others by simply voicing our opinions.
If you get a moment, you might want to check out this site that discusses and protects young actors in the film industry:
http://www.minorcon.org/
Karen
Feb 5, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Here is what Roger Friedman of Fox News says about the rape scene of the 12-year-old in “Hounddog.”
“Since I am one of the few who’ve actually seen it, let me explain something important. There is no point that I can find to the child’s rape. Once it happens, it’s never discussed. The culprit is never accused or apprehended. The child never tells her story to anyone. There’s no great moment of revelation that could possibly help someone who’s watching the film. It’s simply there for shock value.”
Tina
Feb 5, 2007 at 9:25 pm
WOW… well guess he’s entitled to that opinion. That is simply his perspective. I am sure everyone who sees this movie/scene will see it thru their OWN eyes, creating their OWN opinion. I understand where everyone is coming from, that disapproves of this scene, but I guess I do feel like she is a professional actress, and has been for half her life. For that reason, I have to believe she’s not like any 12 yr old you would pull off the street and stick in such a complex scene. I am sure when Dakota starred in “War of the Worlds” there were some pretty violent scenes she was a part of. But it didn’t mess w/her physche, and make her believe it was really happening. And is it not true that more often then not, child rape is not reported… much less if it’s by the hand of a trusted loved one? So, while Mr. Friedman may think the scene was placed in the movie for ’shock value’ alone, I think it held more validity then that. Maybe it’s to help us underdstand why the character behaves the way she does…. maybe it’s because that’s the way it happens… kids get molested everyday, and a majority of them never report it, ESPECIALLY if it’s by a trusted loved one. I am by NO MEANS condoning child rape…and I don’t believe this movie is either.
Kim
Feb 5, 2007 at 10:50 pm
Hi Karen,
Roger Friedman was my boss, many years ago at Random House…interesting guy.
Tina…you make some interesting points.
I’m sorry…but what this post has been about is that in real life Dakota is 12. I don’t care how mature she seems to be in articles you’ve read, or how she appears on talk shows…that is her show business facade.
She is 12.
lauren
Feb 6, 2007 at 12:11 am
Kim, do you always have to sound so defensive about this subject if people try prove something else or bring up another point? It is sort of wierd. You asked what I am doing in regards to “real life”, well I speak out to other young girls in schools about issues such as rape etc. As a victim myself at a young age I have found it to be healing, and so do other girls that have had to suffer. That is what I am doing now what are you doing ? :)
lauren
Feb 6, 2007 at 12:20 am
I also have to say that in regards to you writing
“We’re focused here on the actress and her well being, not the scene…”
Would simply imply to me that you could care less about the real world all you care about is what will happen to this actress that this did not really happen to that was exactly that a scene in a movie”
I am assuming you are getting your own words mixed up because before I read all the previous responses and you made your focal point on the scene, now yu say its not about the scene but about the aftermath it may take on poor little dakota fanning? a bit confused but all in all good luck with this ! And you may be blogging about her but are you truly helping her and if you tried would she even listen to you ? No !
Kim
Feb 6, 2007 at 6:43 am
Hi Lauren,
What you had to go through was truly sad and horrifying…I’m glad that you are able to take your experiences and help others.
And I’m actually not the one who is defensive…you have made several unkind comments.
My comments have been pretty consistent and focused on the well being of a child, who happened to play a part in a movie.
If I didn’t care about the “real” world, I would not have written this post…furthermore, anyone can reply however they wish…but it is a blog written by myself, therefore I do have the right to oppose some opinions.
laura
Feb 6, 2007 at 9:40 pm
I am not planning on judging this movie,until I actually see it (if I see it), but have you ever thought that this movie has been made to give a voice to children who feel like they have lost theirs. Not saying that this movie is appropriate for children to see. But surely people (parents even)are going to be seeing this movie (and the rape scene)….maybe this will prompt some parents to talk to their children about innapropriate behavior, and open up a dialogue with their children. A much needed dialogue, that has been lost in this day and age.
As for what Kim is doing to help Dakota Fanning,and children who have suffered from abuse….I think her blog post has done a small amount of good (at the very least). Look at the response this post has generated. She has gotten people to talk freely about what they think, on this topic. And for that I congratulate her. Well done sister!
lauren
Feb 7, 2007 at 1:36 pm
well i am sorry that you think i have made some unkind remarks ! i dont know what i have said that made you think that way ? maybe you can enlighten me? further more lets be honest here, dakota fanning is not sitting down on her computer and reading any of this niether are her parents most likely. the decision for her to do that part or take part in the movie is said and done with! you can blog you can critizise all you want as can anybody but is the word truly getting out there ?
lauren
Feb 7, 2007 at 1:42 pm
laura -
anyone can talk freely ! you can put anything on a blog and generate a massive response from people ! if i put “coffee is the worse thing for you” that would generate responses. but is the word that coffee horrible really what its about ! its about a right or wrong answer.
kim- this is good tha you started this blog , it does make people really sit down and think for themselves! thankyou and i never meant to be rude but gosh smetimes it just seems like everyone who disagrees with you is wrong and you always have a response for it ! i dunno ! good luck with your blog and i really hope that it is worth your time to go through all this because you feel like you are making a diffence ! so good luck and god speed !
Kim
Feb 7, 2007 at 2:47 pm
Hi Laura,
Very sensitive comments, thank you…and thanks for your support.
Kim
Feb 7, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Lauren,
I’m glad that this subject has kept you coming back to Blog Fabulous.
As I look through my own comments, I believe I am pretty supportive of most people…but I do have to say that you have sounded angry.
Having said that I do wish you the best. and last night I got a call from Dakota…she is pleased with our little post here…LOLOL
Myron
Feb 8, 2007 at 10:14 am
I regret that subjects must have every point painted out so as to sudduce the viewer. Where have all the old movie greats went. “To Kill a Mocking Bird” suggest the intent, and it was very intent. I appreciated Anthony’s remark about not showing the actual scene, but it is suggested. I also remember Brook Shields holding the press attention for her many nude and vulgar scenes as a child while her mother watched and got paid. Where do we want to stand as a nation? Where are we going? I’m afraid the push is on to bring us down as low as the European nations of “no holds barred”, in other words, anything goes. How sad, how very sad.
Kim
Feb 8, 2007 at 12:24 pm
Hi Myron,
Thanks for joining in the discussion. One point suggested in your comment is that it is parents who have to protect our children with sensible core values and limitations.
Rebekah
Feb 9, 2007 at 8:47 pm
i think that dakota is a very lovely kind sweet girl and should not need to put up with this sort of scene in a movie not untill shes older atlest!!
thats really upset me and im goin to be watchin this movie wen it comes to the pics and ill be crying knowing they made the young actress act this scene with her mum watching!!!
Kim
Feb 9, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Hi Rebekah…
Thanks for stopping by…Dakota does seem to be a lovely child…
Let’s just hope that because of our little blog post…that some people will think before they cast a child in a part such as this.
Laurie
Feb 9, 2007 at 9:15 pm
I’ve been unable to post for a while but am interested to see the discussion lives on.
Lauren said she thought we were too focused on Dakota and not the real problems in the world. The director’s decision to include the scene is a problem for our entire society. It also may be one reason why they lost funding after the scene was shot. His decision also shows a willingness to lower our standards of what is acceptable entertainment. It lowers the standards of what is decent in this society. He’s saying, this is what people want to see. And sadly, he’s right because millions will go see this trash even after being warned. Some will go because of the controversy. The controversy will be their excuse to find out for themselves. And if they are sorry they saw it, it will be too late because they’ve already given their approval by paying their money and supporting this kind of movie in the future. The only way directors, producers and movie companies will get the message is if people don’t go see the trash the movie industry thinks is entertaining. Blogs like this will make some think twice before supporting such a movie, So, Bravo, Kim!!
When even one person warns that a movie is inappropriate, that’s my queue not to go. The movies have become so graphic with sex, and violence it’s frightening to me. I can’t believe what people are entertained by and will pay hard earned money for. I see trailers for movies that frighten me so much I can’t believe people will, but they do, go in droves to see more. It’s sickening! I believe these movies and books put ideas in people’s minds and hearts that are dangerous. How can we not be affected by what we see? There’s a new movie out calle “The Hitcher”. This has to be a remake of a movie by the same name that came out in the 80s with Rutger Hauer (sp. There’s a scene where he pulls a man into by attaching him to two different trucks that drive away from each other. I saw that movie some 20 years ago and still am haunted by that scene. I saw that the trailer for the new version has the same scene. It’s sick!!
I think when anyone asks questions like the original blogger did, it shows that they care about people and in this case, a child. Thank you, Kim!
Kim
Feb 9, 2007 at 9:37 pm
Hi Laurie,
Thanks so much for returning to our discussion. It’s amazing isn’t it that my simple observation could cause so much dialogue?
Thank you for your kind words.
It will be interesting to see how many theaters pick up this movie and decide to show it.
Now, you know someone will write in to say we don’t have to go to these movies…much in the same way we don’t have to watch certain TV shows or material on the internet.
But the reality will be this (with this particular film) Outside of New York and other large cities…most suburban theaters will not show this film.
And thank you for reiterating my point…I am really only concerned about a child in this case (no matter how accomplished an actress she may seem) has been put in a situation, by adults, to have to get her brain around this horrifying subject matter.
That’s it…I need to write about Valentine’s day now…LOL
Karen
Feb 10, 2007 at 6:00 am
Laurie, I enjoyed your comments. I am in shock many times at the movie trailers I see on tv. Sometimes I turn my head or turn the channel because they are so horrible.
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Feb 16, 2007 at 10:24 am
[…] I can tell you that if you write about movie stars your traffic rates will explode off the charts. (See don’t I know what I’m talking about?) […]
Susanna
May 15, 2007 at 2:35 pm
Hi,well just to let you know im only twelve too and im always uptodate on dakota fanning because i kinda want to be an actress too so just getting some tips plus she’s a great actress and she’s only a few months older than me so its sad that she’s being in a scene like that. i havin’t seen the movie yet and i might not ever but it sounds terrible but anyways i cant believe that her parents or even herself would be in a rape scene a few other websites said that the scene was alot worse and that she was even half nude but hopefully this one is more true but even though it might be just be her face exprescions and a guys arm its still a little disturbing well i hope she dosent turn out like haley mills and ruin her career but she’s a good actress so i think she’ll slide hopefully…
Susanna
May 16, 2007 at 12:09 pm
Hi well just to let you all know im only twelve, only 6 months younger than dakota and since i want to be an actress i like to get tips and stuff so im pretty up to date on dakota,ive seen alot of her movies too so anyways i think she’s a great actress and that she shouldint have to be in a rape scene i havint seen the movie yet and might not ever but what i heard isint that good and a other website said much worse things like she was even half nude but hopefully this one is more true so its not that bad but i cant believe her parents or even herself would be in that kind of a scene(even if its just her expresions and a guys arm its still a little disturbing)but i know my parents wouldint let me and i wouldint want to be in it either so i hope she doesent turn out like haley mills and ruin her career but since she’s so good it will probley slide well bye everyone!
Susanna
May 16, 2007 at 2:09 pm
Sorry about the double letter its almost exactly the same lol!
Zsar
May 22, 2007 at 2:40 am
Everyone keeps talking about the “point”. The point is that child rape happens. Twelve year olds, two year olds, and so on. It happens and it is very real. We all are aware of it. People preach all the time the movies are not a reflection of real life, but when one comes along that is, there are problems.
How can anyone condem a film they have not seen? Before anyone says that isn’t the point, lets look at the point.
A young actress choose to portray something that has happened to many girls all over the world. Everyone says her mother should not have allowed it. That by doing so she exploited her child. That may be true, who knows. None of us are her mother, nor are we her. Hell no one has even seen the film!
It’s an uncomfortable subject but that does not mean it is wrong to show it. Are we to pretend that it does not happen? Are we so afraid to talk about such things in a real way?
Let this film be a warning to everyone, that these things happen.
Most of all remember, it is a MOVIE!
Sam
Jun 12, 2007 at 7:53 am
I just read through all of this and had so many different opinions about it I don’t know what to say exactly. By the time I was Dakota’s age I had already known more than a child of that age should know about the opposite sex, it was all pushed on me and by more people than just one. At the age of 13 I had my virginity stolen from me and will never be able to get it back. Have any of you ever seen the movie “Bastard out of Carolina?” That movie was so much more violent than what this movie sounds like it is going to be. It shows so much and is played by a young girl that is probably only around 10 or 11 yrs old. That movie made me cry for the little girl who had to deal with so much at such a young age and reminded me so much of myself. I originally heard about this movie(houndog) from the forum I am a member of for survivors of rape and sexual abuse called Pandora’s aquarium. We had a discussion going about it and how there are so many more movies out there that have showed in more detail about the abuse and effects it has on the victim’s(and we really hate to say the term victim’s, we prefer survivor) I am not saying that this movie does’nt sound as bad as the others just because it does’nt show as much, I am just saying that I think we do need movies that show what it is like to have to deal with these issues at such young ages and the effects they carry for the rest of our lives. In the fact that it was never discussed after it happened and that the person/s were never prosecuted for their crime, that is so much more realistic than them showing that it was taken care of, she did get help and support, etc.etc. because that is the least likely of the scenarios. Unfortunately it is so much more true that it will never be spoken of and she will never be validated for what happened and the men will never be punished for their actions. That is just the harsh reality. I have had a total of 10 perps in my life starting from the age of 5 and lasting until age 18 and then r at the age of 26. I can tell you that I held all of that in my whole life and never got anything out of telling because I never told. As for the actress playing the part being Dakota, I think it is not great and also at the same time I think it is great. She is a really good actress and has become someone that alot of young girls look up to. So in that fact being said, it would have alot of impact on any girls watching to give them the knowledge that this does happen to other girls and they are not alone. So many times as a child I thought that I was the only one and that this did’nt happen very often when in fact the only thing that did’nt happen very often was that most girls and boys don’t tell when it is happening. So it help to let them know they are not alone and may help them to come forward and tell because of that. Or it may be bad because someone here sad that she does’nt tell and it isn’t talked about so may encourage them tostay quiet. But in either case it is going to be the child’s decission either way and it may not reflect on what they seen in this movie that is going to help them make that decission….Sorry this is so long. Thanks for listening……Sam
sarah
Jun 30, 2007 at 8:28 am
joanna,ur a stupid person,how dare u talk bout my favorite actress like that.SSSSSHAMEEE
William M
Jul 2, 2007 at 10:50 am
It should be impossible to make a comment about this movie when it has not been released yet. The thing is that nobody can tell nothing about the rape scene, nobody has seen it.
Amy
Aug 7, 2007 at 2:17 am
I agree Sam. My abuse started when I was 3 and went until I was 12. In this day and age, if people don’t think that Dakota Fanning has been exposed to the subject of rape, I think that they are ignorant of the facts of our society. I’m sure that Dakota, from a young age, has probably been quite aware of the abuse inflicted on children. Her portrayal will help others who feel that they are the only one. When I was trying to heal from abuse when I was younger, I had such a hard time finding books or movies that would help me relate and not feel so alone.
If the people who object (who have or have not seen the scene) were to see pornography of real children being raped, victims of the child sex trade, I doubt that they would be making such a fuss about this movie.
In addition, this movie was not made for “entertainment.” It was made to tell a story and make a statement. And yes, most often, a child does not say anything about the abuse after it happens (I didn’t until I was an adult). The abuser is most often not caught (mine weren’t). What this movie is about is survival.
On the other hand, I will say that there is a chance of her being emotionally hurt by this film. There is a chance of children being emotionally hurt by a lot of things. Some of the blogs I’ve seen on the net about this movie are from some really disgusting individuals who seem to thing that rape is a good thing. I’ll spare you all their horrifying and degradading comments.
I can tell you one thing. I wish that my abuse was just acting. I wish that mine was a few clips (that are said to not be graphic at all) on a movie screen that weren’t real. And I bet so would 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 7 boys in our nation that have gone and still go through the real thing.
Sam
Aug 7, 2007 at 7:10 am
I wish the abuse I suffered was just acting too, Amy. I also agree that she may be hurt in the filming of this movie, but has probably already been hurt by many things in her life already, IE not being able to have a real childhood because of acting in all the movies that she has done already. From the way I have heard her talk about her role in this movie, she seems to have her own views already on what this scene means to her and all the children that she is representing in playing this part. Amy also made a good point in saying that this movie is about a young girl finding a way to survive in her world, and compared to alot of different ways that young girls find a way to cope after abuse, I think she has found a pretty darn good way by just listening to elvis. Which as I gather is how she copes throughout her neglegted & abused childhood. I wished I had found a better way to cope with mine. I’ll spare you on how I actually did cope. Well anyway, just wanted to say thank you to Amy and good luck.
albert
Feb 3, 2008 at 12:08 pm
if every child knows what abuse is, they can be protected, but if everybody wants to hide the reality, all will be the same as now, i don’t think is bad to show how cruel can be the world, and if the parents of the girl speak with her about abuse and about hers role on the picture a don’t think she may be hurt for the filming, closed minds cause the abuse child to grown faster. hide the reallity cause our children don’t know how to defend them selfs
Kelli
Mar 26, 2008 at 7:37 am
I think your crazy. Her mother is not selling her, she is simiply letting her daughter follow her dreams. I agree the subject is a little harsh but it’s RAPE. Whats not harsh about it? The fact is I’m proud to see a movie like this come out where the open the public’s eye to a subject that is commonly sweep under the rug!
D.J.
May 15, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Sam, Amy, I applaud you two for having the courage to tell us your stories and giving real insight into the subject of this scene.
The fact of the matter is that child rape happens all the time and there needs to be movies that address taboos like this. And limited-release movies like this are never made for money or entertainment. Just as Amy said, they are made to send a message mainstream big-budget movies are afraid to send.
In my opinion, Dakota Fanning was probably the best option to play this role. She’s not like most 12 year olds. She’s more mature that most adults in her business and has a good grasp of reality around her. I believe she can handle doing this role and be alright.
Speaking of which, just to put it out there…there HAVE been other movies in the past that have had child rape scenes worse than what this sounds like. Yet there was no uproar then. otto at the top may have had a point.
Steve
Jun 21, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Having just spent an hour reading the comments about Dakota Fanning doing a rape scene in a movie, I am thoroughly convinced that there are a lot of people who know how to write, but put little or no thought into their writing: Rape exists. It’s not a pretty thing and I might rank it among the most ugly things that I know of: Child rape is even less pretty, but it, too, exists. To the victim, it may be worse than being beaten with a club, but not as bad as starving to death. It seems to me that the majority of the above comments are opposed to an idea rather than to a truth. Many appear to believe they can authoritatively discuss nasty things like “rape” and “child abuse” from the sanctity of their own personal home…and take the position that because they “think” something is bad and say so, that they can assume a “holier than thou” position. Because it exists, many books, or films talk about child sexuality. Dakota Fannning, for all her tender years, has lived among show-people all of her life. My guess is that she has sufficient knowledge about sex, rape and survival…or she would not have been able to portray the role she selected. It is highly doubtful that she was mentally affected by playing a role that contains these things. I’m more saddened about those who, without even having seen the film “Houndog”, are willing to condemn it on hearsay. They are the ones who will need psychological help, not Miss Fanning.
Kizzy
Sep 3, 2008 at 7:40 am
Here’s what bothers me..1.) she is twelve years old. She should be playing roles that are suitable for a twelve year old. Her mother is just wanting her to win an oscar. To me she is selling her out. Let your kids be kids! 2.) This movie is going to appeal to all the sick bastards that prey on children. this is like porn to them, but legal because it stars a famous child actor..blah..blah..blah. We feed sick peoples fantasies with crap like this. I have a five year old little girl and no way in hell would I allow my child to ever perform in a movie like this. Its vial and disgusting. I cringe every time I see a child actor swear in a movie role. Why do we sit back and allow this? I don’t care if you see anything or not. What about the children that really are raped and abused. They are having their trauma thrown up on a big screen and this little girl is making money off of it. Our nation is so upside down when it comes to stuff like this. We have commercials for anti animal abuse and how we should go green and not wear fur..but i dont see anyone standing up for all the abused, raped, or murdered children. Im tired of it being ignored except when it comes to making a movie.
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Sep 6, 2008 at 4:10 pm
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Emad Soliman
Sep 12, 2008 at 6:28 pm
well how about real life situations where little 9 and 10 year old children face this rape scene only they are not pretending
julia
Sep 20, 2008 at 5:50 am
Has anyone mentioned Jodi Foster in Taxi Driver? She was 12 and she played a prostitute who gets raped?
What about those two girls from the movie Thirteen? That whole movie is filled with drinking drugs and sex?
What about all the other movies that have unknown actors playing children that are abused? No one has kicked up a fuss about that.
I am sure Ms Fanning had on set counciling/therapy available to her.
I won’t see the film - because that sort of thing is not entertaining to me…. but we live in America where freedom of speech is fundamental. If someone wants to make a movie about this sort of thing… they will be able to find someone to play the part and we have no right to say they shouldn’t…. we can just NOT go and see it… speak with our dollars.
brittany
Sep 24, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Why is it that everyone stops to think of the trauma of a child being in a rape movie versus children being in movies where there are other violent acts? Is it more okay to have children included in scenes where there’s drug use going on? Or what about the scenes where the child witnesses the rape or murder of a family member? The film makers can easily manipulate filming to get their point across without actually doing any of these things. If this girl is mature enough to be part of a movie that’s getting people talking about a very real issue then give her credit where it’s due. What would you rather have? Should no taboo subjects ever be broached? You don’t have to like it but try looking from a different angle.
Noe
Sep 24, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Sadly, in real life 12 year olds are raped. This is a horrific truth in life.
I am very sure that in prep for the role.. for the scene even… her mother, he guardian, the director.. whoever… discussed with her in full details to be sure She understood what was going on.
I highly doubt there was any foul play on the set.
Fred Anderson
Sep 27, 2008 at 3:53 am
I think it is time for the puritanical stuffed shirts to shut up and let the rest of us enjoy the movie. Dakota Fanning is a wonderful actress and she is certainly mature enough to play this roll. Plus she brings to light some very real problems that society should be dealing with. Leave her alone for God’s sake; there are many really bad things you should be focusing your attention on. Fred
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