# I Watched Matt Walsh's Movie and I Have Questions with Director Justin Folk | The Way I Heard It ![](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/HoVFvfLzQkY/maxresdefault.jpg) ## Discussion of "Trading Up" and the director's new movie - The conversation starts with a mention of the director's past work, specifically a film called "Trading Up" starring [[Mike Rowe]] and Khloe Hudson, which the director seems to want to put behind him [(00:00:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=13s). - The director and the host discuss the director's new movie, which is set to be released on the upcoming Friday, and the potential backlash it may receive [(00:00:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=47s). - The host mentions that the movie has already been released by the time the audience is listening to the conversation, and the director acknowledges that the backlash has indeed happened and is still ongoing [(00:01:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=66s). - The director expects a significant reaction to the movie, comparing it to a "hornet's nest" that has been kicked, and believes that the movie will create a big conversation about the issues it addresses [(00:01:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=101s). - The director hopes that the movie will create critical mass and force people to respond, rather than ignoring it, and believes that the goal of the movie is to spark a real conversation about race [(00:02:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=126s). - The director mentions that the movie's release is not just about box office success, but about creating a conversation and offering a different perspective on the issues [(00:02:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=153s). ## Matt Walsh's role in highlighting transgender gender ideology - The director credits [[Matt Walsh (political commentator) | Matt Walsh]] with seeing the importance of addressing the issue of transgender [[Anti-gender movement | gender ideology]] in the movie "What is a Woman," and believes that Matt's question was timely and necessary [(00:03:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=188s). - The director acknowledges that he and others underestimated the impact of the issue of transgender gender ideology, but believes that Matt saw it coming and was ahead of the curve [(00:03:37)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=217s). - Matt Walsh is credited with being one of the first people to ask questions about the impact of certain ideologies on society, particularly regarding children and sports, and he deserves more credit for taking a stand on these issues early on [(00:03:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=227s). - Walsh's willingness to ask tough questions has made him a target, with 247 security personnel, and he is likely on the front lines of the issue [(00:04:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=253s). - The question Walsh asked about the impact of certain ideologies on society has been echoed everywhere, and it's rare for someone to be able to see the headlines catch up with an issue they care about [(00:04:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=280s). - The question eventually made its way to the [[Supreme Court of the United States | Supreme Court]] nomination process, showing the significant impact it had [(00:05:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=310s). ## The issue of DEI and its relevance to the film - Walsh's ability to read the tea leaves and predict the importance of certain issues, such as the "what is a woman" question and now the issue of DEI ([[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion]]), is notable [(00:05:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=341s). - The issue of DEI has become a major topic in the country, with a presidential candidate being referred to as the "DEI candidate," and it has come roaring back into the conversation recently [(00:06:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=364s). - The timing of the film's release, which took about a year and a half to make, coincides with the presidential campaign, which is discussing topics like equity, race, and gender [(00:07:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=420s). - The film's creators hope to contribute to the conversation about these issues and challenge the idea that certain qualifications, such as equity and race, should be considered when evaluating a person's ability to do their job [(00:07:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=439s). ## The film's comedic approach and influences - The movie has a mix of serious undertones and comedic elements, making it a laugh-out-loud funny film in unexpected places, with the goal of using comedy to open people up to new ideas [(00:07:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=453s). - The team behind the movie, including [[Matt Walsh (political commentator) | Matt Walsh]] and the director, have a shared sense of humor and were influenced by comedies like [[The Office (British TV series) | The British Office]], which often features uncomfortable humor [(00:08:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=520s). - The team aimed to utilize the power of comedy and ridicule, which they believe has been underutilized by conservatives in the past, to tackle tough topics [(00:09:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=562s). ## The film's plot and exploration of DEI - The movie's plot revolves around Matt Walsh asking the question "Am I racist?" and embarking on a journey to find the answer, during which he becomes a certified DEI expert and teaches these ideas himself [(00:10:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=607s). - Unlike the previous movie "What is a Woman?", this film takes a different approach, with Matt Walsh embracing the ideas of DEI and taking them to their logical conclusions [(00:11:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=672s). - The movie explores the concept of systemic racism and the idea that white people may have inherent biases, which is a central theme in the film [(00:10:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=615s). - The team's goal was to make a funny movie that would open people up to new ideas and challenge their perspectives, using comedy as a powerful tool to achieve this [(00:09:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=551s). - The film's ending features a workshop where the main character teaches ideas that were heard throughout the movie, which were not just created for comedic effect but were actual concepts encountered during the filmmaking process [(00:11:23)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=683s). - The movie "Anti-Race Icist" is a journey of one man's exploration into [[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion]] (DEI) and anti-racism, featuring ideas pushed by influential people like [[Robin DiAngelo | Robin D'Angelo]] [(00:11:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=717s). - The film aims to show [[Americans]] what these ideas are about, as many well-intentioned people are genuinely trying to be better and not racist, but are being taken advantage of by those who profit from these ideas [(00:12:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=750s). - The comedy in the movie comes from people who genuinely want to be nice and better, but are being exploited by those who use these ideas for power and money [(00:12:45)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=765s). ## Critique of current approaches to race relations - The film's creators believe that the current approach to addressing racial wounds is counterproductive, as it tears open old wounds and pours salt on them, rather than promoting color blindness [(00:13:01)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=781s). - The creators think that the current state of race relations in the country has gone in the wrong direction, and that the media often stokes racial tensions by adding a racial component to unrelated news stories [(00:13:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=806s). - The film's promotion was met with pushback from those who believe that acknowledging the country's progress and accomplishments makes one deaf to the problem of racism [(00:14:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=892s). - There's still a lot of work to be done in the US, and the country was founded by imperfect people, but not acknowledging this can lead to being labeled as "privileged" or "unwoke" [(00:15:18)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=918s). - The larger conversation, such as the one sparked by the movie "What is a Woman," has dominated everything, and society has trouble believing that two things can be true at the same time [(00:15:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=943s). - The US has historic issues with racism and slavery, but it's also an incredible, enlightened country that has navigated these issues and made progress [(00:16:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=968s). - The country's system of government has allowed it to move past its flaws, but people are flawed, and there's still work to be done [(00:16:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1000s). ## Societal inability to reconcile complexities - The movie "What is a Woman" is about the complexities of America, but people can't seem to understand that two things can be true at the same time [(00:16:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1008s). - There's a collective inability to draw a straight line between what people think and what they do, and actions are what people are convicted for, not their thoughts [(00:17:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1024s). - The coaching industry is not based on changing what people do, but rather on changing what they think and feel, which is immeasurable [(00:18:23)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1103s). ## The financial motivations behind the DEI industry - The movie highlights that the experts in the [[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | diversity, equity, and inclusion]] (DEI) industry are often motivated by money, and this needs to be acknowledged [(00:19:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1155s). - The film deliberately shows the amounts of money paid to these experts to make this point, and it's hoped that this will be one of the main takeaways from the film [(00:19:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1184s). - The current situation is about power and money, with some individuals taking advantage of people by reopening racial wounds for their own benefit, and it's essential to follow the money to understand their motivations [(00:19:55)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1195s). - The people involved in this issue are being paid standard fees for their services, and in the case of [[Robin DiAngelo | Robin D'Angelo]], her speaking fee is publicly known [(00:20:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1246s). - The industry surrounding this issue has grown into a multi-billion-dollar market, with some individuals making more than others and having figured out how to capitalize on it [(00:21:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1270s). - The issue started with good intentions, but once the money started flowing in, it became a lucrative business, with individuals being hired by big companies like [[Google]] and [[Netflix]], and they have no incentive to stop [(00:21:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1281s). ## The perpetuation of victimhood and the role of the media - The real tragedy is that this issue requires convincing one group of people that they are racist and another group that they are victims, creating a cycle of guilt and victimhood with no hopeful ending [(00:22:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1329s). - For this issue to persist, [[African Americans | Black America]] needs to genuinely believe that they are screwed and that the system is still systemically against them, which is perpetuated by constant reminders from the media [(00:22:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1345s). - The media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, and if a narrative is repeated enough, people will start to believe it, as seen in the Jesse Smollett incident, which set back race relations in the country [(00:22:55)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1375s). - The philosophy behind this issue has no end and no hopeful ending, with no prescription for solving the problem, leaving individuals feeling guilty or victimized with no way out [(00:23:34)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1414s). - The concept of systemic racism is considered a hopeless and dark philosophy that benefits those who perpetuate "The Narrative," such as news networks and authors like [[Robin DiAngelo]], who profit from selling the idea of oppressors and the oppressed [(00:23:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1437s). - This philosophy has become an industry, allowing opportunists and profiteers to thrive, but it is not beneficial for the country [(00:24:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1480s). ## The concept of systemic racism and its implications - The term "systemic" is seen as a clever invention, as it is vague and cannot be pinpointed, making it difficult to address real racism [(00:24:54)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1494s). - Systemic racism is often used to explain any disparity in society, ignoring other factors such as culture, economics, and family, as seen in Ibram X. Kendi's book "[[How to Be an Antiracist | How to Be an Anti-Racist]]" [(00:25:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1543s). - This approach can lead to endless accusations and a lack of progress, as people are trained to look for racism everywhere, whether it exists or not [(00:26:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1572s). - The question is raised about how to move away from this philosophy, and whether it can be done through pop culture, conversations, or asking questions like "Am I a racist?" [(00:26:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1602s). - The outcome of taking these ideas to their conclusions is seen in Matt's workshop, where it leads to yelling, cussing, and anger, ultimately going nowhere [(00:27:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1625s). ## The Black Lives Matter movement and its financial controversies - The example of [[Black Lives Matter | the Black Lives Matter]] movement is mentioned, where people were pressured to show support on social media, and the question is raised about whether the movement is still ongoing [(00:27:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1641s). - The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement seemed to lose its power and luster over time, especially when people started investigating the financial trail and found that millions of dollars had gone missing [(00:27:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1664s). - The founders of BLM were seen as leaders who would bring about change, but instead, they were found to be living in expensive estates, and the money donated to the cause had disappeared [(00:28:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1704s). - A similar situation occurred with Ibram X. Kendi's think tank at [[Harvard University | Harvard]], where millions of dollars were allocated, but no tangible work or results were produced [(00:28:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1722s). - The people who donated to these causes felt guilty and wanted to help, but they were misled by the leaders, who used the funds for personal gain [(00:29:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1742s). ## Attempts to involve Ibram X. Kendi and discussions of plagiarism - The film's creators tried to get Ibram X. Kendi to participate in the film, but he declined, possibly due to the scandal surrounding his organization at the time [(00:29:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1762s). - Ibram X. Kendi is not good at handling media interviews, and his responses often do not end well [(00:29:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1792s). - [[Malcolm Gladwell]] had previously supported Ibram X. Kendi, but it is unclear how he feels about him now, especially after the scandal [(00:30:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1816s). - A debate between [[Douglas Murray (author) | Douglas Murray]] and another individual was mentioned, highlighting the importance of being honest and not being a "fraud" [(00:30:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1847s). - There are allegations of plagiarism against [[Robin DiAngelo]], which further emphasizes the need for authenticity and honesty [(00:31:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1875s). - [[Claudine Gay]], the president of [[Harvard University | Harvard]], is accused of plagiarizing her doctoral dissertation, specifically copying work from two Asian women who had been researching the same topic, which is considered a serious offense in academia [(00:31:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1884s). - The plagiarized work was a significant part of her career and helped establish her as a prominent figure in her field, but it is unclear if she will face consequences for the plagiarism [(00:31:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1911s). - Plagiarism is considered intellectual theft, and it is surprising that someone in a position of authority like the president of Harvard would be accused of such behavior [(00:32:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=1962s). ## Accusations against Claudine Gay and the issue of accountability - The accusations against Claudine Gay highlight the issue of different standards for treating good or bad behavior, with some individuals being held to different levels of accountability [(00:33:31)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2011s). - The movie being discussed features a moment where [[Claudine Gay]] does something on camera that shocks the audience, revealing her true behavior despite being aware that she is being filmed [(00:34:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2040s). ## The film's Candid Camera-style approach and the Heisenberg Principle - The movie's approach to filming its subjects is compared to the style of [[Candid Camera]], but with the cameras being visible, and it reveals how people behave when they know they are being recorded [(00:34:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2081s). - The behavior of the people featured in the movie, including those who are well-intentioned, is fascinating because they know they are being filmed but still behave in a certain way, which relates to the Heisenberg Principle and the [[Uncertainty principle | uncertainty principle]] [(00:35:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2120s). - The concept of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle is discussed, which states that observing a thing fundamentally changes it, and there is a limit to the precision with which certain pairs of physical properties can be simultaneously known [(00:35:34)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2134s). - This principle is applied to social anthropology, where emphasizing or deemphasizing one aspect can affect the connections between people, and the business of observation can bring out a performance or reveal a truth [(00:36:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2186s). - The use of cameras can sometimes bring out a performance, while other times they reveal a truth, and this dynamic is seen in comedy, documentaries, and real-life situations [(00:36:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2198s). - The example of Robin is given, where she had to do something because of the camera, and this dynamic is also seen in social situations where people change their behavior when they know they're being observed [(00:37:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2231s). - The example of a panhandler is given, where people's behavior changes depending on the panhandler's race, and this dynamic is seen everywhere [(00:37:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2269s). ## The Heisenberg uncertainty principle and its irrelevance to Breaking Bad - The Heisenberg [[Uncertainty principle | uncertainty principle]] is not related to the TV show [[Breaking Bad]], where the main character [[Walter White (Breaking Bad) | Walter White]] uses the alias "Heisenberg" [(00:38:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2315s). ## The film crew's professionalism and experience - The goal of the director, Justin Folk, was to create the perfect environment for [[Matt Walsh (political commentator) | Matt Walsh]] to play in, and this involved the crew and filming apparatus [(00:39:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2342s). - The director praises the crew, including Ben, Anton Sim, Andy Patch, and Chris Claypool, who are all professionals and delivered high-quality work [(00:39:17)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2357s). - The crew working on the film with Matt Walsh were professionals who had worked together before, including on the film "What is a Woman", and had experience handling difficult situations, such as congressmen walking out on them [(00:40:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2441s). - The crew's experience and professionalism were crucial in capturing the reactions of the people being interviewed, such as a congressman who walked out on Matt Walsh when asked a question, and whose eyes were seen searching the room for an escape [(00:40:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2457s). - The crew's ability to remain calm and composed in tense situations was key to getting the desired footage, and they are credited with "hanging in there" and capturing the congressman's reaction [(00:41:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2492s). ## Addressing criticisms of the filmmakers' methods - The criticism that the filmmakers were deceitful and lied to their subjects is addressed, with the claim that they did everything they said they would do, and that the subjects were approached and asked to talk about anti-racism, with their ego being appealed to [(00:41:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2511s). - The filmmakers argue that they did not do any manipulative editing, and that everything shown in the film is as it was, with the goal of showing [[Americans]] what the people being interviewed really feel or say [(00:43:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2585s). - The filmmakers believe that the people being interviewed would stand by what they said, even if they did not know the context in which it would be used, and that they were not misled or deceived in any way [(00:43:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2600s). ## Matt Walsh's appearance and the payment of participants - Matt Walsh's appearance in the film, including his man bun and skinny jeans, was a deliberate choice to show him on a journey, and not meant to be a disguise [(00:42:37)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2557s). - The individuals featured in Matt Walsh's movie were paid for their participation and signed a release, which is why it's fair to show their views in the film [(00:43:28)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2608s). ## An anecdote about advertising and the fairness of portraying views - A personal anecdote is shared about a friend who auditioned for a Doers campaign, got the job, and later found himself in an ad with three other guys who looked similar, highlighting the unexpected nature of advertising and media appearances [(00:43:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2629s). - The individuals in the movie were given a platform to express their true beliefs, and it's not unfair to show their views just because they're mad about talking to [[Matt Walsh (political commentator) | Matt Walsh]] [(00:45:56)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2756s). - The goal of the movie is to elevate the ideas and views of the individuals featured, so people can understand what they truly believe [(00:46:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2780s). - The possibility of sharing responses from the individuals featured in the movie, who may be outraged and claim they were manipulated, is discussed, but it's unclear if this will happen [(00:46:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2792s). - A previous instance is mentioned where individuals featured in a film claimed they were manipulated after the fact, but it's argued that they were asked about the topics they were going to be asked about beforehand [(00:47:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2824s). - The director feels completely fine about the movie and its portrayal of the individuals' views, as they want to show what these people truly believe [(00:46:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2774s). ## Discussion of a bearded man's disagreement with Robin D'Angelo - The conversation is about a bearded man who disagreed with [[Robin DiAngelo | Robin D'Angelo]] on some things, but it's unclear what he's really upset about [(00:47:29)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2849s). - Robin D'Angelo is set to star in a movie titled "I-cistarget 13th" in 2024, which is listed on her [[Wikipedia]] page [(00:47:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2864s). ## The Black Lives Matter organization and the phrase "all lives matter" - The topic of [[Black Lives Matter]] is discussed, and how the phrase "all lives matter" was met with resistance, with some people being told they're missing the point [(00:48:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2923s). - The issue is that people don't understand that two things can be true at the same time, such as black lives mattering, but not supporting the Black Lives Matter organization due to its [[Marxism | Marxist]] founders and goals [(00:49:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2951s). - The organization's website outlined its goals to fundamentally change society, including breaking down the family unit, which is seen as unhealthy [(00:49:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2970s). - Saying that Black Lives Matter as an organization is doing harm to the country was twisted to mean that black lives don't matter [(00:49:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2989s). - Not putting up a black square or saying "all lives matter" was seen as an indication of not being on board with the movement [(00:49:59)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=2999s). - The way language is used against people is a concern, as it can be used to paint people with a broad brush and imply they don't know something that's already obvious [(00:50:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3022s). - The conversation is seen as having nothing to do with action and everything to do with thinking, and is compared to telling people they need a four-year degree or they're screwed [(00:50:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3043s). - The idea is that people are being forced to take a side on an issue that's not that simple, and that it's time to wipe out the line in the sand and not be forced to choose [(00:51:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3075s). - People often fall for the idea that they must choose between two extremes, rather than considering nuanced perspectives, and this can be seen in the way language is used to frame debates [(00:51:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3085s). ## The election of Barack Obama and accusations of racism - The election of [[Barack Obama]] as President of the United States is cited as an example of how a society can be both racist and capable of electing a black president, highlighting the complexity of the issue [(00:51:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3106s). - Any opposition to Obama's policies was often immediately labeled as racist, making it impossible to have a nuanced discussion about his policies [(00:52:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3152s). - The same phenomenon can be seen in the way people react to suggestions that [[Kamala Harris]] was a [[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion]] (DEI) appointment, with some journalists expressing incredulity at the idea despite President Biden's clear statement that he would only nominate a woman of color for the position [(00:53:29)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3209s). - This reaction is seen as an example of how the media can manipulate public perception and create a narrative that is not supported by facts, with the phrase "don't believe your lying eyes" being used to describe this phenomenon [(00:54:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3266s). ## The tension between DEI and meritocracy - The idea of DEI is seen as being at odds with the concept of meritocracy, and the film was made to explore this tension and ask whether society wants to prioritize DEI over merit [(00:55:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3327s). - The question of whether Kamala Harris was a DEI appointment is seen as a test of whether people are willing to acknowledge the role of DEI in decision-making, with some arguing that proponents of DEI should be proud to acknowledge its influence [(00:54:45)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3285s). - The reaction to the suggestion that [[Kamala Harris]] was a DEI appointment is seen as an example of how people are reluctant to acknowledge the implications of DEI policies, even when they are clearly stated by those in power [(00:55:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3302s). - The ultimate goal is to decide whether to look at skin color as the first and major thing, or to reward people based on what they can do and what they're about [(00:55:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3336s). ## Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision and the debate on color blindness - [[Martin Luther King Jr.]] is featured in the movie "[[Something to Stand For]]" because his words represent the country's march towards something better, specifically the idea of content of character over skin color [(00:55:59)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3359s). - Some people argue that Martin Luther King Jr.'s ideal of a colorblind society is no longer desirable, and instead, a hierarchy based on skin color is being promoted [(00:56:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3390s). - Experts argue that color blindness is problematic because it doesn't address the current problems, and instead, they suggest focusing more on race than character [(00:57:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3458s). - [[Black Lives Matter | The Black Lives Matter]] movement's leadership has been disgraced, and the movement is no longer as prominent as it once was [(00:58:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3507s). - The movie "Something to Stand For" features a beautiful piece about Martin Luther King Jr. and is a pro-American film that showcases stories with a similar thread [(00:58:34)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3514s). ## The film's availability and origins - The movie is available exclusively on [[Angel Studios]], and it is hoped that more people will watch it to understand the importance of its message [(00:59:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3562s). - The movie started as short stories written to pass time on planes, which eventually turned into a podcast, a book, and a TV series before being adapted into a film [(00:59:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3579s). - About 80% of the movie was already created as "found footage" from the previous adaptations, and the challenge was to connect these existing stories into a cohesive film [(01:00:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3625s). ## The challenges of filmmaking and connecting stories - The filmmakers aimed to discuss the country's statuary without taking a deep dive into left or right politics, which proved to be a challenge [(01:00:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3644s). - The hardest part of filmmaking is connecting good ideas and creating a structure that audiences can follow, with a clear beginning, middle, and end [(01:01:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3670s). - The film's through-line was successful in tying the different stories together, which is often the most difficult part of filmmaking [(01:01:45)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3705s). ## The balance between structure and spontaneity in filmmaking - Although the film was intensely scripted, there were still moments of spontaneity, such as a scene where the filmmaker met an old man on an honor flight, which became a key part of the movie's promotion [(01:02:31)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3751s). - The filmmaker believes that audiences want to be taken on a journey and trust the filmmaker to guide them, but also want to be surprised, whether through scripted or spontaneous moments [(01:03:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3786s). - The movie's director, Justin Folk, and the filmmaker discussed the balance between structure and spontaneity in filmmaking, with the filmmaker noting that there is a "weird balance" between the two [(01:03:31)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3811s). ## The film's focus on authentic conversations and the American dream - The film's authenticity was achieved by talking to regular people, including those at a biker bar and in the South, to discuss their experiences with white privilege and racism [(01:03:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3837s). - One of the most impactful scenes in the film features Milton, an auto mechanic from [[New Orleans]] who owns an auto shop and has 53 grandkids, and is an immigrant from [[British Guiana]] [(01:04:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3866s). - Milton's story is a great example of [[American Dream | the American dream]], as he has built a successful business and owns half the block where his shop is located, despite appearing to be a humble man [(01:05:58)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3958s). - The film's conversation with Milton is authentic and contrasts with the views of so-called experts on [[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | diversity, equity, and inclusion]] (DEI) [(01:05:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3904s). - The American dream is a concept that means different things to different people, and an article in a journal found that 60-68% of the country no longer believes it applies to them [(01:06:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3985s). - The film aims to share the stories of people like Milton and Andy Michael, a 90-year-old man, to show that the American dream is still achievable and to challenge the views of DEI experts [(01:07:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4040s). - The film's director believes that Milton is the heart and soul of the movie, and his scene is a beautiful example of a colorblind person who has achieved success through hard work [(01:05:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=3927s). - The American dream is built on meritocracy, where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed based on their abilities, regardless of their skin color or background [(01:08:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4086s). ## DEI's opposition to the American dream and the 1964 Civil Rights Act - [[Diversity, equity, and inclusion | Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion]] (DEI) stands in direct opposition to [[American Dream | the American dream]], as it prioritizes skin color over merit, potentially leading to qualified individuals being overlooked for opportunities due to their skin color [(01:08:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4090s). - DEI defies the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prohibits giving preference based on skin color, and should be challenged in every court and company where it is being utilized [(01:09:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4172s). ## The tyranny of niceness and the fear of speaking out - The reason DEI is not being challenged is due to the fear of public shaming, cancellation, and the tyranny of niceness, where people prioritize being nice over speaking out against something that doesn't seem right [(01:10:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4215s). - The tyranny of niceness is similar to the Red Scare, where people are afraid to speak out against something they disagree with due to fear of consequences [(01:10:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4241s). - The use of language is also important, as people want dominion over others by controlling the words they use, and some individuals, like [[Jordan Peterson]], have refused to use certain words or phrases that they disagree with [(01:11:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4285s). - The fear of not being nice and the fear of consequences have led to people not speaking out against things that don't seem right, including DEI [(01:11:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4264s). ## Compelled speech and the black square movement - The concept of compelled speech is considered tyrannical and dangerous, as it forces individuals to say or do something against their will, and has been seen in other places such as the [[Soviet Union]], where people would stand up and clap for hours to avoid consequences [(01:12:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4336s). - The example of posting a black square on social media is given as a form of compelled speech, where people felt pressured to do so to avoid questions and maintain a corporate image [(01:12:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4361s). - The black square movement is seen as a form of virtue signaling, where people publicly declare their support for a cause without necessarily understanding or truly believing in it [(01:13:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4384s). - A personal anecdote is shared about a meeting at [[Facebook]], where the author noticed an overwhelming display of [[Black Lives Matter]] banners and symbols, and questioned whether this was a genuine expression of support or just a public declaration [(01:13:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4422s). - The author suggests that this kind of public declaration can be seen as insincere, and that true support for a cause requires more than just public statements [(01:14:29)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4469s). - The example of an [[National Football League | NFL]] stadium with an "End Racism" sign in the end zone is given as another example of virtue signaling, where a public declaration is made but may not necessarily reflect the true beliefs or actions of the individuals involved [(01:14:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4482s). - The author argues that this kind of approach lacks nuance and assumes that everyone needs to be reminded of the same message in the same way, rather than acknowledging that different people may need different approaches [(01:15:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4539s). ## Jordan Peterson's stance and the use of platitudes - The author suggests that Jordan Peterson's stand against compelled speech is admirable, and that individuals should be able to choose what they say and do without fear of consequences [(01:12:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4329s). - Politicians often use platitudes to get elected and gain widespread agreement, which can result in watered-down messages that lack substance [(01:15:53)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4553s). - The movie being discussed is seen as a refreshing change from this approach, offering a more honest and direct perspective [(01:16:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4579s). ## The film's team and future projects - The film's director credits their team for the movie's success, emphasizing that filmmaking is a collaborative effort that requires a group of people working together towards a common goal [(01:16:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4604s). - The director mentions specific team members, including producer Brian Hoffman and actor Ben, highlighting the importance of their contributions to the film [(01:16:56)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4616s). - The director expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work with [[Matt Walsh (political commentator) | Matt Walsh]], who is described as an "insane talent" [(01:17:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4659s). - The team is already considering new project ideas, with the possibility of working with Matt Walsh again, although it's unclear whether he will keep his beard for future roles [(01:18:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4707s). - The director credits the Daily Wire and its team, including [[Jeremy Boreing]] and Caleb, for their support and willingness to finance and distribute films like this one [(01:18:54)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4734s). - The director is thankful for the opportunity to work on this project and is excited to see what the future holds for the team and their collaborations [(01:19:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4755s). ## Matt Walsh's beard and career discussions - The conversation touches on the topic of Matt Walsh's beard, with the possibility of a bet being placed on whether he will keep it or shave it off, and the fact that beards can grow back if shaved [(01:19:29)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4769s). - Matt Walsh's wife, Alyssa, is also fond of his beard, but beards are known to come and go [(01:19:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4784s). - The conversation shifts to the topic of careers, with a mention of a 20-minute documentary that Justin Folk was a part of, and how it was not included in his resume [(01:20:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4807s). - Justin Folk and the host met while working on the project "[[No Safe Spaces]]," and Folk was considering a career change at the time [(01:20:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4819s). ## Systemic racism, the movie's portrayal, and concluding remarks - The conversation takes a serious turn, discussing the topic of systemic racism and the movie's portrayal of it, with a mention of the website mist.com and an encouragement to watch the movie in theaters [(01:20:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4849s). - The host expresses their enjoyment of the movie, mentioning that it will evoke strong reactions from viewers, and encourages listeners to subscribe to the channel [(01:21:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoVFvfLzQkY&t=4868s).