Moore documentry opens fire on gun law

Bowling for Columbine is a powerful, humorous and emotional look at why America is such a violent society.

Using the 1999 Columbine High School shootings as a focal point, Michael Moore examines the usual excuses that are trotted out time and again to explain American’s gun-related violence.

Is it music? Is it TV violence? Is it “ethnical mixing”? (as NRA president Charlton Heston seems to think). Is it the lack of gun-control? Is it poverty? Or are Americans just plain nuts?

Obviously it would be impossible for any one film to answer all those questions, but Bowling for Columbine has managed to put the spotlight firmly onto what should be one of America’s greatest concerns. The fact that this film sparked heated debates all over the States is testament to its success.

There are a number of interviews with celebrities who share their opinions on the matter, such as rocker Marilyn Manson, the NRA’s Charlton Heston, and Oklahoma bombing terrorist suspect James Nichols.

Then there are the interviews with regular Americans that really put things in perspective, such as Columbine survivors, Michigan militia members, and a school principal at Buell Elementary School, where a six-year-old boy shot a six-year-old girl.

Bowling for Columbine is at times disturbing but always engaging, and a must-see for anyone with a social conscience.

Docu-drama, 15, ****