Film documents obsession with physical appearanceFeb. 16, 2011 KALAMAZOO--"America the Beautiful," an award-winning documentary about cultural obsession with women's physical appearance, especially weight loss, will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, in the Little Theatre at Western Michigan University. The screening is open to the public free of charge, and will be followed by a panel discussion with Iora Haglund of the Kirsten Haglund Foundation. Doors open at 6 p.m.
The 2007 film has a run time of 120 minutes and is rated R for some language, including sexual references. The Little Theatre presentation of "America the Beautiful" is sponsored by the Southwest Michigan Eating Disorder Association and by WMU's Sindecuse Health Center and several academic departments of the University. Parking and directions The Little Theatre is located at the corner of Oakland Drive and Oliver Lane on WMU's East Campus. Free off-street parking is available behind the theatre. Kalamazoo College screening The film also screens free of charge at Kalamazoo College at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, in the recital hall of the Light Fine Arts Building. Media contact: Thom Myers, (269) 387-8400, thom.myers@wmich.edu WMU News |
Director Darryl Roberts' provocative documentary examines America's fixation with outward appearance and the unrealistic standards of beauty dictated to the public by the media, pop culture and the fashion industry. Featuring interviews with fashion experts, media personalities and celebrities such as Mena Suvari and Aisha Tyler, the film looks at everything from plastic surgery's growing popularity to widespread concerns about eating disorders.