Rude: Where Are Our Manners?

Host Valerie Pringle examines contemporary mores and social interactions in this documentary that combines opinions from regular folk with the observations of experts, along the way featuring some colorful language (read: profanity) and rude gestures. From swearing to road rage, from not opening doors to distancing one's self through devices such as iPods, Rude: Where Are Our Manners? looks at the ever-changing rules of civility. Although some may say the good old days are long gone, Judith “Miss Manners” Martin remarks “You show me where it is in a historical calendar!” Rude underscores this point by citing various epochs in recent history that did more than just lack manners (such as the Civil Rights era). Also featuring commentary from etiquette instructors, authors (including Lynne Truss, Talk to the Hand), and Dr. P.M. Forni (a professor with the Johns Hopkins Civility Project), Rude covers workplace incivility, generation gaps, self-esteem vs. self-restraint, and the importance of being aware of others' feelings. Sure to spur discussion, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Williams-Wood)