Frank Miller Defends Violence in Sin City

Posted on May 20, 2005

Comic book writer Frank Miller responded to criticism that his film, Sin City, is too violent and might promote violence in society. Sin City is based on Miller's comic books of the same name and is a nominee for the Palme d'Or prize at the Cannes film festival. The BBC reports:

He said the bloodshed and brutality in the film noir, which is based on his graphic novels, are very "stylised."

"Violence is a real catchy buzzword these days," Miller told a press conference. Considering most drama since The Iliad and before is extremely violent -- because that's how people work problems out -- it's a bit ridiculous. "I don't believe in the "monkey see, monkey do" theory of entertainment. The Japanese have the most violent fiction and movies in the world and they have among the lowest crime rate."

Scenes in the ultra-violent movie include a man's arm being shot off, women's heads mounted on plaques hanging on the wall and a severed head being put on a table. British actor Owen plays a former-photographer and is one of the film's only "good" characters.

Bruce Willis, Clive Owen and Jessica Alba star in Sin City, which is shot almost entirely in black and white. Miller has announced that there will be a sequel entitled based on his book, A Dame to Kill For.

---

---