Non-Troll Fact: America is Not Horrible

Let’s debunk the stereotype that all of America is a terrible place. America, like any other country, is populated by a mix of good and bad people. While it’s true that there are downsides, there are also numerous cultural activities and stimuli that make it a vibrant and diverse place to live. Whether it’s the infrastructure or the beautiful, exciting, and diverse cultural activities, the USA offers plenty to appreciate. The “downside” is certainly not a global standard; it can often be a matter of perspective and which parts of the country you choose to visit.

An A24 Afficionado’s Take

Imagine describing America through an A24 lens. That’s where we start. The cultural output from companies like A24 often highlights America’s unique quirks and issues, but fails to capture the full spectrum of reality. Much like A24 films, America and its cities have their own inherent charm and complexity, and we should embrace them for what they are.

Venting and Reality Check

For all the trolls who think America is somehow worse than other countries, it is high time to put on your reality check glasses. While Portland, OR is indeed a fantastic spot for American cities, it’s not the only place in the US that’s worth visiting. From the beauty of Portland to the cultural allure of Los Angeles, the US offers a multitude of experiences. It’s essential to see these places for what they truly are and not just through a single lens.

Tackling Hollywood Hype

From Hollywood to other parts of Los Angeles, the city is often portrayed as a place of endless possibilities and glamour. However, these depictions are just that—depictions. To truly understand Los Angeles, you must look beyond the arresting establishing shots of Hollywood and Highland, Rodeo Drive, and the Hollywood Hills. In reality, Los Angeles is a sprawling city made up of over a hundred smaller cities, each with its own unique character and charm.

Realities Beyond the Movies

Imagine a drive from Ventura to Indio, spanning about 4 hours on the road. This vast, sprawling metropolis is not just a collection of tourist attractions like Hollywood Hollywood. It’s a place where you can experience a range of realities, from strip malls and gas stations to the daily routines of ordinary people. It’s important to remember that the city is not a static, polished image on a screen; it is a dynamic and diverse urban environment.

Driving Distance vs. Miles

Los Angeles is vast and sprawling, but it’s important to measure distances in time rather than miles. Instead of thinking in terms of miles, it’s more accurate to think in terms of hours it takes to travel between locations. This is because the city is so extensive that it would take a significant amount of time to travel from one end to the other. For example, the area of Venice Beach, often depicted in movies, is small enough to fit inside Albert Park in Melbourne, showing just how much of the city remains hidden from the lens of the camera.

Living in Los Angeles

For those considering making Los Angeles your new home, my advice would be to actually live there for a couple of weeks before making any decisions. Explore the city, drive from various cities to cities, and get a sense of where you might want to work and live. Keep in mind that living and working in different parts of the city might require a different approach, just as the drive from Ontario to Santa Monica can be a significant distance.

Final Thoughts

From my own experience living in the Western US for over a decade, I can attest that Los Angeles is a unique and vibrant city. It’s not just a collection of tourist spots and glamorous areas; it’s a place filled with real people and a diverse tapestry of life. So, if you’re considering making Los Angeles your home, come with your eyes wide open and a sense of adventure. You might just find yourself falling in love with the city’s realities, regardless of how it’s portrayed in movies and on TV.