Hillbilly Elegy: An Ode To The "By The Bootstrap" Bullsh*t Gospel

On this week's episode of Kickin' & Streamin' Podcast, Graham & Jocelyn discuss the Netflix movie  Hillbilly Elegy, based on a  memoir by the same title written by J.D. Vance. Graham begins by addressing the controversy surrounded by the book; which at the time of its publication, became a point of argument in which  people on the conservative political spectrum touted the book as a testament of its author achieving the "American Dream" by rising out of the poverty-stricken Appalachia region of America to an Ivy League college graduated lawyer. Whereas those in the liberal spectrum of American politics viewed the book as far less of a success story, but rather a vivid account of a part of America that has been left uncared for and its people devastated by poverty, lack of opportunities, and an increasing opioid addiction problem.  Jocelyn addressed the movies lazy portrayal of poor people and its enforcement of stereotypes which have been long used by rich people to describe and portray poor white people, and people of color. Jocelyn went on to explain in great detail all the things the movie got wrong and why such a negative narrative about America's poorest regions is dangerous, and it hinders the necessary help and social improvements the region lacks. Jocelyn also took issue with the misogynistic portrayal of the women in the story, where it seems to suggest that it takes being a "male" to make it out of poverty.  For a greater understanding of Jocelyn's rebuke of this movie, Jocelyn invites listeners to read an article written by  Alison Stine, an author from the Appalachian region who still currently lives there.  Listen to this episode and please tell us your opinion.  This and all of our podcast episodes will be available to watch on our YouTube channel on Fridays at noon. please don't forget to subscribe for future episodes. If you like this episode, please rate us on your podcast player, and subscribe for future episodes. Follow us on social media on Faceboook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. You can also support the show by becoming a Patron on our Patreon page where you'll become eligible for our exclusive patrons-only contents. Finally, we'd like you to visit our merchandise store on Teespring where you can purchase our beautiful and stylish t-shirts, pullover, and mug.