14 DAY TRIAL // The debate on the possible link between cinema (or even games) and apparently random acts of (mass) violence is an old one, but here is Ann Hornaday tossing more fuel on the fire that’s already burning very bright. She believes Elliot Rodger, the virgin killer who went on a spree the other day, leaving 7 people dead including himself, acted this way because of the negative influence unrealistic films had on him.
In an op-ed in the Washington Post, Hornaday says “that the cinematic grammar is one of violence, sexual conquest and macho swagger” which influences behavior in moviegoers even when they don’t realize it, AceShowbiz informs.
On the other hand, Apatow comedies, in which the nerdy guy always gets the girl, set up very unrealistic expectations in young males like the Santa Barbara killer, expectations that lead to deep frustrations when they’re not met in real life.
She even names Rogen by name and says that his most recent comedy, “Neighbors,” is exactly the kind of film that could get an already imbalanced young man to act out because it would appeal to his sense of alienation and feeling of not belonging.
Not surprisingly, the actor has taken to Twitter to respond, writing, “@AnnHornaday I find your article horribly insulting and misinformed. How dare you imply that me getting girls in movies caused a lunatic to go on a rampage.”
As per the aforementioned media outlet, Apatow joined in the chat, writing, “She uses tragedy to promote herself with idiotic thoughts. Most of Earth can't find a mate – someone to love. People who commit murder of numerous people have mental health issues of some type.”
The Santa Barbara killer had “announced” his intentions in a manifesto left with his therapist, in which he explained that rejection had made him hate all women and that he planned to kill those who had dared turn down his advances.
His therapist alerted his parents and they, in turn, called the police. However, by the time cops tracked Elliot Rodger down, the tragedy had already happened.