The Rocket

Issue date: 4/25/08 Section: Focus

Media Credit: MCT Campus Ben Stein stars in and narrates the documentary "Expelled," which explores the topic of intelligent design and how it is considered taboo by the scientific population. [Click to enlarge]

"Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed" is the most shocking film I've ever seen. It's a thought-provoking, debate-inspiring film that everyone should see who is in favor of academic freedom of speech.

The documentary stars Ben Stein ("Ferris Bueller's Day Off," "The Mask"). Stein is also the narrator of the film. The premise is that intelligent design (the belief that life was started by an intelligent being rather than from random chance)is a taboo topic among scientists. The film reveals that scientists and other professionals were fired from their jobs or denied tenure just because their beliefs were not in sync with scientific norms. Ben Stein interviews various scientists on both sides of the Darwinism/intelligent design debate. "Expelled" uses interviews, historical footage and a few scenes of animation to make its point.

I tried to go into this film with an unbiased manner, but I don't think a person can approach any topic completely unbiased that he or she has an opinion about. I enjoyed the film; in fact, it's the first one this year to get five stars from me. Is it because I agree with the subject matter? That's a possibility. Is it only because I agree with the subject matter? Not at all.

Is it fair for you to be critical of my opinion of "Expelled?" Of course! However, it's not fair to write off me or anyone else simply because we have an opinion that is different from your own.

While "Expelled" is controversial, so are many other documentaries, such as the ones made by Michael Moore. I am a fan of Michael Moore films, but every ounce of me wants to despise his films because I know that he is frequently dishonest in them. Unfortunately, I can't hate his films because they get people talking, take on important issues, and (above all else) because they are insanely entertaining. I wish that every person were willing to listen to another's opinions.

"Expelled" is not asking for the viewer to agree with intelligent design or believe in God, but it is asking for an open mind. It seems that many critics and some noted scientists are responding to this film by insulting the filmmakers. Even noted evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, author of "The God Delusion" who appeared in this film, stooped to the level of calling people who believe in intelligent design "I.D.iots" on his blog. Seriously? Capitalizing the "I" and "D" in idiots to stand for intelligent design? I really expected much more.

So, if there's not a major difference in quality (the movie is made in the same style as other popular documentaries), could it be that the media jumped all over this because there is a hint of God in "Expelled?" See the movie and make your own decision.

RENTAL PICK

"Resurrecting the Champ" is a movie about a journalist who unexpectedly discovers a famous boxer who was believed to be dead. The man in question is homeless and living in an alley and is played by Samuel L. Jackson ("Star Wars," "Pulp Fiction") in one of the best performances of his career. The story is unexpected - a definite must see.

Brian McCumsey is a junior history major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

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