...To Keep and Bear Arms...

A nice, no-nonsense look at gun ownership. The only real thing missing was a little more detail about handguns vs. rifles vs semi-auto weapons and if/how gun owners think about different types of guns.

I think you need to throw in statistics comparing gun related deaths in USA compared to countries that have strict gun control. I think you'll find that there are way fewer gun related deaths than in the USA. What it boils down to me is, what best serves the common good?

Most gun related deaths are caused in households between families and friends. In the heat of a passionate fight it's easy to reach for a gun and blow someone away.

I think this pod doesn't challenge the pro gun group as much as it should and let's them skate with the same tired arguments - more guns = more safety. When in fact More guns : More gun related violence.

I'm holding off on a GL because I think this could be tightened up.

The opening on the sidewalk could be way shorter. Also the jumpy right knee is a huge distraction. I think you could safely lose much of that.

Where is your point of view on this subject? It feels incomplete to me. I hope you take this in the constructive spirit it's given.

Let me know what you think?

With best intentions.

David

As someone who considers herself anti-gun, it was interesting to see another side of the issue. This piece puts a human face to gun owners, who tend to be generalized by other media as hickish and out of touch. I found the reporter to be open and charming and able to connect with the variety of people she spoke to. Great job!

Hi Christina. Nicholas here.

I agree, statistics would be wonderful. The topic of ingrained fear comes to mind after viewing your short.

I recently had a conversation with my sister who resides in Reading, Pennsylvania.

She found it was quite shocking that I do not know a single woman living in New York or Philadelphia who carries mace - and that out of all the female friends I have, no one has been in a situation where mace might be needed.

She works a part time job at a local gym. While scanning ID cards, she has noticed a large percentage of women carrying keychains decorated with mace spray.

What influences white people in the suburbs to go through life with so much fear?

What influences someone to own a gun, and carry it with them, in the slight chance he or she may need it for self defense?

I enjoyed your short. The patriotic apparel was amazing. The blogger scares me. He seems like someone who would not allow himself to listen to opposing views.

"Why would you not carry a gun if there is a chance you may need it - it is your right."

By the way, if you have not already, you must see, "No end in sight." Amazing update on situation in Iraq. Heavy breathing throughout entire film.

Must see.
*Love

Interesting perspective on an old topic. So often you hear about all the reasons you should not hold guns but this peice provides a unique insight into the lives of those who do. Plus I like the style of the piece. The journalist is very relatable.

enter your post here

This gives great insite on personal beliefs of NH residents..The right to bear arms is part of the founding veiws of our country and should still be upheld freely..

I loved how Christina put herself into this piece by explaining her personal views on guns not only at the beginning, but during the final conclusion as well.
Although gun ownership makes me uncomfortable at times .. it was interesting to see why others think its so important.
She made me feel like no matter what my personal views were I could watch this piece and see what drives these people to want the right to bear arms. It was especially interesting to hear how gun rights are important in this politically influential state.
Also loved the editing .. very fun to watch!

I thought Christina was engaging and open minded. She did a good job of getting people to talk about guns in ways that aren't mainstream in my part of the country.

I liked the style of the piece. It was fresh and youthful while being informative and eye opening. It reminded me of the MTV news pieces that I loved in the late 90s with Serena Altschul. I'll look out for more from HellerGoodale.

good clean cuts, nice shots, interesting topic, personalized

Cristina you are hot!