Film Does Not Depict Planting Of The American Flag On The Moon

You've probably heard about the controversy surrounding the upcoming movie "First Man", which tells the story of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the Moon. To recap, actor Ryan Gosling, who was born in Canada and plays Armstrong, said that the decision to eliminate a scene showing the planting of the American Flag on the surface of the Moon is appropriate. He said that the moon landing "transcends countries and borders."

Fox news reports that many have blasted the decision, including U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), who called the decision "total lunacy" that ignores historical reality.

Buzz Aldrin, who followed Armstrong onto the lunar surface, has joined the fray. He recently posted historical photos of the flag-planting with the hashtag "Proud to be an American."

Rick and Mark Armstrong, the sons of the late astronaut, released a statement in conjunction with biographer James Hansen saying the criticism is not entirely justified.

“This story is human and it is universal. Of course, it celebrates an America achievement. It also celebrates an achievement 'for all mankind,'” the statement said. “The filmmakers chose to focus on Neil looking back at the earth, his walk to Little West Crater, his unique, personal experience of completing this journey, a journey that has seen so many incredible highs and devastating lows.”

(NASA image from file)

FMI: Source report