*Image courtesy of AP Images.In the interest of full disclosure concerning my viewpoints, it should be mentioned that the questionable dramatic value of "Big Love" has been mentioned in these pages before, notably in reference to Executive Producer Tom Hanks and his not so subtle jab at the Mormons (or more accurately, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints).
Interestingly enough, some controversy has currently cropped up over the very likely inaccurate and smarmy depiction of some of this faith's sacred ceremonies to advance the plot line. To be perfectly honest, I don't really bother watching--there's already so much superior television pumped out by that dramatic genius J.J. Abrams (really, he's like Midas without the regrets) and just so little time for viewing. But as I've said before, this is offensive and cheap and most people know it. And it's also a tacky way to stir up free advertising through the controversy that usually ensues.
Yet an interesting trend has developed in response among those of a more tolerant attitude--the impulse to ignore such pettiness. Significantly, famous sci-fi writer Orson Scott Card--a member of said church--comments on the patent ineffectiveness of such assaults in "National Review," while the Church itself has thoughtfully produced a simple and direct statement more or less signifying that it will far outlast the length of this television show's sanctimonious stumbling through the world of politicized entertainment.
I say well done.
While arrogant and narrow attacks such as this should very much be mentioned in media outlets, it seems evident that playing the better Christian part comes in turning the other cheek. And there's a plot line I'm sure HBO didn't see developing.
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