WEDNESDAY THOUGHTS: AT THE MOVIES

 

It’s been years since I’ve sat in a movie theatre. The roomy, plush, red, reclining chairs, and movable tray tables were a nice surprise—and yes—we checked the stubs to make sure the right film title was printed on them. 

I don’t even know where to begin about Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners”. 

I’ve watched several interviews featuring the cast and director, as well as very informative STEM/ steAm-promoting behind-the-scenes explanations, with great interest, but wondered if I could handle the movie, itself. 

I came home feeling wowed, proud, and hopeful, and with most of my popped-on-site, perfectly salted and buttered popcorn still in the bag. If you know me, you know that’s major. That’s just how riveting the film is. 

I’m not the scary/horror story type, and was a little apprehensive, (and I admit, before bed, I flooded myself with a good dose of happy PBS Kids cartoons, like a seven year-old. Thank you Eleanor, Alma, Rosie, Lyla, and Molly) but I love a good plot, History, music, Art, and this film was so beautifully shot; the story so perfectly told, convincingly performed, and overflowing with symbolism, I forgot to be scared. Yeah. I jumped a couple of times, laughed, wanted to talk to the screen, (Close the door!) and even acknowledged a few direct messages about discernment, decision making, and alliances. The messages were screaming on, and in-between the lines. It’s one of those films you may have to see more than once. It deserves a class, course, workshop, or seminar. Who knew that all vampires weren’t from Transylvania? Why was that culture’s music and dance included? How many films never saw the light of day because of their potential to expose, offend, or spark conversation?

My friends, Ella and Chet, had seen it already, wanted to see it again, and eagerly treated me to an incredible cinematic experience. 

When it was over, the young white guy, seated next to me, who’d watched with his two friends, looked my way. Our eyes locked. His expression was somewhere between enlightened, concerned, confused, and apologetic. “Are you okay?”, I asked him, in a parental way. He sighed, smiled, and nodded, “I think so”.

Very few patrons got up as soon as it ended. Everyone just sat, dazed, until the lights came on.

Lessons? 

1. Sometimes, someone else’s even limited knowledge is enough of a warning to you to heed their advice, especially when you know nothing.

2. Anyone can learn and quote scripture—perfectly and passionately—but they don’t have to believe it. Never assume that someone else is ignorant of it. Never let your own relationship with it be merely performative. It’s not just a good luck charm for desperate times. 

3. Enemies know and respect who, and whose you are. They know what you bring to the table. They’ve been watching and studying you.

4. One person’s poorly calculated, immature, or emotionally driven decision or actions, can create chaos for many.

5. Garlic is your friend. Eat it.

6. No matter what they’ve always done, never assume that someone is going to do a thing. Ask them. Make and solidify a plan.

7. Everyone’s history matters. The honest, accurate telling, and preservation of it, enlightens us all concerning our shared humanity.

8. Sometimes, the choices and options people offer, only benefit them. Their better, may be no good for you.

Trust your instincts. Respect the boundaries you set, and remember why they’re there.

9. Notice how a person’s attitude, tone, or demeanor changes when you say, “no”.

10. Know your worth, and the value of your time. Being chosen does you no favors if you’re being cheated. People with integrity and good intentions will even remind you of your value.

11. When people show you who they are—no matter what their geographical location is— believe them.

12. Sometimes, the best work isn’t rewarded. That doesn’t mean you should stop doing your best—or telling your stories.

13. The most visible player, may not be the most valuable player.

14. Even Grace has limits. 

15. Don’t let fear keep you from showing up.

16. Someone’s narrative or perception can never eclipse nor erase the truth of your lived experience.

17. We’re all looking at things and people through the narrow lens of our own experiences, or those of people we trust. 

18. Be careful who you oppress, chase away, or send to what you think is punishment. They may be building strength, wealth, knowledge—or an army.

19. Never leave the theater as soon as the credits roll. There could be more to the story.

#Sinners

#RyanCoogler

#movies