Bitch-Slap
The term, the act, and comedy are not pretty
Perhaps you also got the memo.
Dear Medium Writer, We noticed that you have not yet published a post regarding the recent “Slap Heard Round The World.” We know you are busy, and that other things may be on your mind (even though we’re not quite sure how that can be the case), but the importance of the event demands you weigh in. We’re sure we don’t need to remind you of the requirement to comment on Rock v. Smith. We look forward to your compliance in providing your particular insight on this pivotal cultural event, just as almost every other writer has done. We have no desire to remove you as a writer, though we will do what we must if our hand is forced.Thank you,Signed, Medium Gods, at the request of HHM (Hollywood Hype Machine)
Damn. There was hope that this would all blow over by now. How naive.
So here goes.
Disclaimer: Though not an attorney, I am providing an opinion on Rock v. Smith. The scope of this case is confined to a brief incident where Mr. Smith purportedly took it upon himself to leave his seat, walk onstage, and bitch-slap the defendant, Mr. Rock. I have no opinion on whether or not “That was the greatest night in the history of television,” as stated by Mr. Rock just after contact. Please do not confuse this with other cases such as Rock v. Paper&Scissors.
Was The Slap Justified?
The wife of Mr. Smith was insulted by the intersection of a Hollywood movie and an unfortunate medical condition. Making fun of another’s disability is never acceptable, except when done by a political candidate. Even so, does it justify physical punishment?
We defer to childhood wisdom. “Sticks and stones may break my wife’s bones, but names will never hurt her.” Escalation to violence on the basis of misguided humor is unacceptable on both playgrounds and awards shows.
The Misogynistic Term
The term is used to denote an act that is not only violent, but is a show of disrespect, contempt, and dominance. A key point is that disrespect is shown not only by what was done, but by what was not. The perpetrator did not form a fist. Contempt for the victim is so great that the perpetrator believes the victim can be forced into submission with a fraction of the destructive power available.
Have you wondered how long Mr. Smith’s hand stung after the strike?
And speaking of striking, striking the term from the English tongue would be an overdue positive move.
Was It Staged?
The cynical among us say yes. After all, these people are actors, and actors act. One could also ask if these actors know which side of the reality vs. fantasy line they are on at any given time.
The incident fits directly into the wheelhouse of the Hollywood Hype Machine (HHM). Any publicity is good publicity. Ho-hum has been transformed into breaking news. Millions of views! Break out of a snooze! No industry blues! For just a small bruise!
The cynics point out that Mr. Smith initially laughed at the offending joke, and only strode onstage after receiving “the look” from his wife. Or was it that he saw a cue card off-camera that reminded him of his part in the scene?
Mr. Rock’s Reaction
If one believes that this was a spontaneous event, and that the smiling Mr. Rock was not expecting contact, his reaction must be noted. It was plain to see that this was not the first time Mr. Rock has been assaulted due to an edgy and offensive joke.
Humor is a dangerous business!
The most innocent of barbs may be taken in ways other than as intended. Mr. Rock knows this well, and understands that whenever he is within arm’s reach, there is potential for violence.
Consciously or not, he was ready, and knows how to take a blow.
Hollywood’s Reaction
“The Academy does not condone violence of any form.”
Huh? Say again? Has the Academy ever watched any of its own movies? Horror movies, War movies, Real-Crime movies, the death of Bambi’s mother? Or how about this unverified list from the Internet Movie Database?
“Oh, but that’s not real,” say the apologists. Balderdash. Surrounded by violent images, one becomes desensitized to real violence. And one can’t help but note that Mr. Smith, in his Oscar-winning role as Richard Williams, was shown being beaten and also carrying a gun with intent to kill.
Just shut up, Academy.
Bottom Line On Rock v. Smith
Everyone continues to talk about a mostly boring and lackluster awards show. Regardless of the reality of the moment, HHM has successfully done what it does oh-so-well. Continued hype, trumpets Mr. Smith’s subsequent parting with the Academy, and Mr. Rock’s “processing” of the event.*
In a world where the monetary ends fully justify the means, the movies are relevant once again!
*It is hoped that the clever Mr. Rock will create a memorable response commensurate with that of Richard Pryor, who said, “When you’re running down the street on fire, people get out of your way!”
