‘WIRED TO KILL’

I don’t know which of the two has offended me more, the film “Wired to Kill” or the attitude expressed by its producer Paul McGuire that the only Christians who could’ve objected to his film must be “out of touch with filmic ‘art’ ” (Outtakes, by Chris Willman, Nov. 30).

As an industry professional for the last 10 years as well as what the media refer to as a “born-again Christian,” I have faced the challenge of keeping my faith intact and/or paying the bills countless times. I have been openly ostracized by my fellow church members for working in this “sinful” industry, and have likewise had to refuse critically needed work because I could not accept it and still follow Jesus.

It was (“Wired to Kill” director) Franky Schaeffer who inspired me to keep working, to keep writing and keep trying to make my own place in this industry, to maintain my personal style and Christian voice, to produce work that I could proudly display before men and God with no compromises.

As a long-time film student and fan of science fiction/horror/fantasy films, I know very well that I’ve seen far more general market and genre films than the “average Christian.”

Yes, I was indeed “blown away” by “Wired to Kill.” That someone as literate as Schaeffer could write such a dull-witted and thudding rehash of tired old themes and then presume to pass this off as a committed Christian making a philosophical statement is appalling.

“Wired to Kill” isn’t “The Sound of Music” (which I also never liked); it doesn’t even seem to be a sell-out on Schaeffer’s part. It seems like it was written by the protagonist of “Starman”; written by an alien, trying to mimic the attitudes and postures of a culture that he cannot comprehend. (How much violence? How much sex? Is it time for the swearing yet?)

Some of us know this turf, Franky. We’ve been paying our dues here for years, waiting for our breaks. You were handed a precious opportunity, and you not only made a very poor film, but you betrayed our trust in you. And that, Mr. McGuire, is what blew me away.

DENNIS EDWARD GRIGOLEIT

Long Beach