The Warren Report: Well, excuuuuuussssseeeee me, Sir!

Do actors make a significant contribution to society? I suppose they can, some have. Certainly, some do make a difference off-screen. Say what you will about Sean Penn, but he did jump into the fray in New Orleans during Katrina*. (For evidence, check out Spike Lees absolutely astonishing documentary, WHEN THE LEVEES BROKE: A Requiem In Four Acts or Carl Deal & Tia Lessins equally stunning TROUBLE THE WATER.) But do actors day jobs warrant knighthood?† The Queen of England — sadly not Helen Mirren — regularly rewards favored thespians with a title. But only one of these honored stage-trotters, insists he be referred to as Sir at all times, by all parties. He has demanded the title appear in film credits and that his co-stars kowtow in accord with his status. This actors contractual requests — knight riders, if you will — are appalling, the nadir of his professions vanity. Yes, he has won an Academy Award for Best Actor; fortunately, he has yet to insist that prefix be added to his smug, self-appointed sobriquet. (Excuse me, Oscar®-winner Sir _________, but might you run lines with me?)

Tellingly, his fellow knights of the crafts service table object to this actors assumed appellation. But what do you THINK? Watch todays video for the secret identity of Sir Self-Important, then draw your own conclusions. Should actors be eligible for knighthood? Need Obama create a similar reward for American (screen) idols? If so, which cinema vet would you choose to fete? Smart or funny suggestions received on The Warren Report's blog post (http://thewarrenreport.com/?p=6561) by Noon on Monday, March 30th, 2009 might just win film-related sur-prizes.

* The actors detractors claim Seans appearance in New Orleans was just a publicity stunt. Watch the documentary, read the reports, discuss amongst yourselves. (Feel free to include me in the debate!)

† Delightfully, a quick Google search revealed an article in The New York Times —written more than a hundred years ago! — complaining about the practice. Further proof, that The Warren Report is always current. Like Law & Order, but ripped from last centurys headlines!

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• knighthood
• actors
• Anthony Hopkins
• Sir Ben Kingsley
• Warren Etheredge
• The Warren Report
• Sean Penn