Neil Armstrong's sons defend 'First Man' from critics calling it "anti-American" for not including flag planting scene

Rick and Mark Armstrong, as well their father's biographer have come out to defend 'First Man' from criticism by conservative pundits and commentators.

'First Man,' the upcoming American biographical drama film by Oscar-winning director Damien Chazelle on the 1969 moon landing, has been oddly criticized by some conservative politicians and commentators as 'anti-American.' The film had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival on August 29, in the aftermath of which some quarters have taken an issue to the fact that it did not depict Neil Armstrong's iconic flag-planting scene.

Others took offense to lead actor Ryan Gosling's comments on the same after the airing. Asked why the scene was omitted, the 37-year-old had said he does not think that the astronaut "viewed himself as an American hero" and that his accomplishments "transcend countries and borders." He added that they wanted the film to "reflect Neil."

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Miami may be the backdrop in ‘72 Hours’, but most of the movie came to life somewhere completely different. Here is the full filming story.
32 minutes ago
‘Her Private Hell’ is Nicolas Winding Refn's first film in 10 years
1 hour ago
Netflix's new Kevin Hart comedy has barely arrived, but fans already want more. Is ‘72 Hours’ 2 on the cards, or is this wild ride over?
7 hours ago
Michelle Hadley’s life was upended by a shocking case of false accusations and identity theft, as explored in ‘A Toxic Love Story.’
19 hours ago
The first official trailer for Zach Cregger's ‘Resident Evil’ teases a terrifying night in Raccoon City and a desperate fight for survival
1 day ago
Robert Pattinson leads A24's 2006-set drama about the making of 'To Catch a Predator' ahead of its Venice screening.
1 day ago
Richard Linklater and Glen Powell are reuniting for a Lou Gehrig biopic. Here is what you need to know about the film and its cast.
2 days ago
Tom Rhys Harries' Matt Hagen loses control after a risky treatment turns his body and mind against him, with the latest trailer featuring body horror.
2 days ago
A24’s new Hollywood drama follows a comeback story filled with ambition, setbacks and chances, with Chris Rock marking his first feature since 2014.
2 days ago
The Netflix documentary revisits how a stalking case against Michelle Hadley unraveled into a framing plot.
2 days ago