“Laws against homosexual behavior should remain on the books, not to be indiscriminately enforced against anyone who happens to be caught violating them, but to be used when necessary to send a clear message that those who flagrantly violate society’s regulation of sexual behavior cannot be permitted to remain as acceptable, equal citizens within that society.”
The gay organization Geeks Out is urging LGBT and heterosexual allies to boycott ‘Ender’s Game‘, the big budget movie based on his 1985 novel, which has become one of the most beloved works in science fiction. The film, by Summit Entertainment, is set to hit theaters on November 1st, 2013, and stars Harrison Ford, Ben Kingsly, Viola Davis, Abigail Breslin and Hailee Steinfeld, with Asa Butterfield portraying the title character. The film is widely considered to be Summit’s attempt to replace its completed ‘Twilight Saga‘ and many have pointed out similarities to the popular ‘Hunger Games‘ series.
“Skip Ender’s Game is a call to action. Do NOT see this movie! Do not buy a ticket at the theater, do not purchase the DVD, do not watch it on-demand. Ignore all merchandise and toys. However much you may have admired his books, keep your money out of Orson Scott Card’s pockets.
By pledging to Skip Ender’s Game, we can send a clear and serious message to Card and those that do business with his brand of anti-gay activism — whatever he’s selling, we’re not buying. The queer geek community will not subsidize his fear-mongering and religious bullying. We will not pay him to demean, insult, and oppress us.”
Instead, the group urges fans to spread the word to possibly unwitting fans, enlightening them to Card’s anti-gay rights stance and the fact that by paying money for anything ‘Ender’s Game’ related is very likely giving money to anti-gay rights and equality organizations, which Card does donate his money to. It also suggests that fans create alternative events on November 1st. Geeks Out is throwing Anti-Ender’s Game celebrations in Chicago, Dallas, New York, Orlando, Seattle, and Toronto.
Earlier this year, DC Comics had to shelve an Orson Scott Card penned issue of Adventures of Superman after fans protested and illustrator Chris Sprouse walked off the project. Like DC, Summit has attempted to downplay Card’s politics in its attempt to market the film.
It’s unfortunate, because so many people love the book and are thrilled by the idea of a live-action movie. Then again, there are alternative ways to see the movie that don’t involve giving money to a right-wing homophobe.
What do you think? Do Card’s political views affect your appreciation for his work? Should a writers beliefs even have an effect on the work they create? Do you still plan of seeing the movie? Comment below!
