The decision by Ike Boutwell, the owner of Hardin County’s two movie theaters, to ban the nation’s top-grossing movie, “Monster-in-Law,” has stirred both support and controversy in the community. Boutwell’s refusal to screen the film stems from his deep-seated resentment towards its star, Jane Fonda, for her actions during the Vietnam War.
On the ticket window at the Elizabethtown Movie Palace, a sign explains that the cinema will not show the film due to Fonda’s visit to North Vietnam in 1972, where she was photographed with an anti-aircraft crew. Similarly, the marquee outside Showtime Cinemas in Radcliff boldly states,
“No Jane Fonda movie in this theater.”
Boutwell, who trained pilots during the Vietnam conflict, is unwavering in his stance that people should be held accountable for their actions. He believes that Fonda’s actions, which he views as giving aid to the enemy, contributed to prolonging the war and causing further loss of life. This isn’t the first time Boutwell has taken a stand against films he finds objectionable. He also refused to show Michael Moore’s “Fahrenheit 9/11” and has previously banned other Fonda movies.
Financially, Boutwell’s decision comes at a cost, as “Monster-in-Law” was the top-grossing movie over the weekend, raking in over $23 million nationwide. However, the theater owner remains resolute, receiving mixed reactions from the community. While older veterans like Sal Mancuso, a Vietnam War veteran, expressed gratitude for Boutwell’s decision, younger moviegoers, particularly women, were disappointed by the ban.
Despite some criticism, Boutwell’s choice has garnered significant support. Vietnam veterans like Mancuso, who believe Fonda should face severe consequences for her actions, view the ban as a powerful statement.
Even younger individuals, like 22-year-old Spc. Mike Carwile, who learned about Fonda’s controversial past from the notice outside the theater, voiced their support for Boutwell’s decision, agreeing that everyone should be responsible for their actions.