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» Gillian Anderson blown up for climate change
I'll admit it, I have a crush on Gillian Anderson, or should I say the
X-Files' Agent Scully. Yes, yes, I know the X-Files is no longer - I've
finally come to terms with it, don't rub it in :).
When I heard that Agent Scully had been blown up in a video about climate change
called "No Pressure"; I thought there must be some mistake. Agent
Scully simply cannot be killed. Aliens couldn't get her, The Men In Black failed
as did all sorts of deranged folks, assorted ghouls and monsters over years!
It's just not possible.
However, the news item was talking about Gillian Anderson - a mere mortal.
Still, I couldn't figure out why someone would do such a thing as my
understanding was Gillian is rather pro-environment.
It seems her on-screen demise was for a good cause - a video encouraging people
to do something about climate change by cutting their own carbon emissions.
Unfortunately, it wasn't well received and if you watch it, you may be
able to understand why. Gillian isn't the only one blown up, a
couple of school kids are as well.
WARNING: Contains scenes some may find gruesome.
The group behind the video, UK-based 10:10,
wanted to bring a "critical issue back into the headlines whilst making people
laugh."
I really don't know what I feel about this video. I understand No Pressure is meant
to be comedy and parts of it appeal to my somewhat dark sense of humor, but this is the
sort of thing I would expect from a group like PETA - the "shock" approach.
However, it has worked for PETA (well, they keep doing it anyway) and perhaps
10:10 thought it may do the same for their cause as well. One thing is for sure,
the video is now getting a lot of coverage, even though the group has pulled it
from their web site after various complaints.
Gillian wasn't the only big name involved. Writer of Blackadder, Four Weddings and
Notting Hill Richard Curtis lent his skills to the project, as did a high profile
British soccer player. It's my understanding that no-one was paid for their participation
and the fact some of these stars were prepared to not be portrayed as environmental
heroes or green spokespeople is a bit of a departure from the norm, so kudos to
them for that anyway.
So what's it all about:? 10:10 is about committing to reduce our carbon emissions
by 10% starting this year, then working together to make it happen.
I'm not sure if "No Pressure" is the way to make it happen. The use of children was probably an unwise move and this may also give those in denial about climate change more fuel for the "lefty looney" fire - what are
your thoughts?
This is a question of extremes... We are not used to be a moderate. Many people trying to be 'too': too green, too environmentally friendly, too industry oriented, too...
As they say in Slavonic countries: "Make a fool to pray to God, he'll hurt his forehead!"