Reflections on Hillbilly Elegy
The film "Hillbilly Elegy" was released on Netflix five years ago, and it’s surprising how little time has been spent reflecting on the Trump VP, JD Vance, since then. The movie, directed by Ron Howard, was based on Vance’s memoir of the same name and explored the complexities of his family’s history and cultural background.
The Film’s Reception
The 2x Oscar winner, Ron Howard, has spoken about the mixed reactions to the film. He stated that he’s "not thinking about it" and acknowledged that the film received bad reviews, but the audience reaction was generally positive. Howard seemed to be aware of the cultural divide surrounding the film, saying, "I know that it is a mixed bag and probably quite culturally split."
JD Vance and His Complicated Heritage
When asked about reconciling JD Vance’s involvement in the film with his later role as a supporter of President Donald Trump, Howard expressed surprise. He said, "Well, it happened, so I know what I have observed. It remains a surprise for me." This comment highlights the complexity of Vance’s character and the unexpected turn his career took after the film’s release.
The Film’s Plot and Cast
"Hillbilly Elegy" tells the story of a Yale Law Student, played by Gabriel Basso, who returns to his Appalachian roots and reflects on three generations of family history. The film also features Amy Adams and Glenn Close, with the latter receiving Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for her supporting role. The movie explores themes of family, culture, and social class, offering a nuanced portrayal of the decline of the white working class in America.
The Book’s Impact and Controversy
The book "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis" was published in 2016 and sparked a national conversation about the feelings of alienation and disillusionment among certain segments of the population. The book was hailed by both conservatives and liberals as a insightful exploration of the decline of the white working class, with Vance’s family history serving as a powerful example of the struggles faced by many Americans. However, the book’s reception was not without controversy, and its impact continues to be felt today. Interestingly, after Trump endorsed Vance, the film’s viewership rose from 1.5 million to 19.2 million in just 24 hours, a staggering increase of 1,180%.
