America the Beautiful

The United States of America is known for being one of the wealthiest nations on the planet with the most opportunities for its citizens.  In 2004 alone, Americans spent $12.4 billion (yes, billion!) on cosmetic surgery.  With such an abundance of wealth, why are Americans so discontent?

Too much television and easy access to plastic surgery are conventional answers, but they do not fully explain this national psychosis.  These same images are found all over Europe and Canada, yet their citizens do not have this same obsession.

In almost 40,000 media messages a year, youthful Americans are being told that, unless you look like supermodels and rock stars, you're not good enough for anyone to love.  This is a message that too many people are buying.

The hope of achieving these 'ideals' has consumers purchasing cosmetics, toiletries, fashion and and plastic surgeries at increasingly dramatic rates.  Has the 'American Dream' changed so much that it can only be achieved once we can perfectly emulate the super sexy images of Britney Spears or other pop icons?

Filmmaker Darryl Roberts goes on a two year journey to examine America's new obsession; physical perfection.  In America the Beautiful, we learn secrets, confessions, and strikingly harsh realities as Roberts unearths the origins and deadly risks of our nation's quest for physical perfection.

FREE!
Sunday, March 21st 1-4pm
Popcorn provided
3719 N. Williams, PDX 97227