A recent independent film, “Hounddog,” has drawn negative attention from some critics because a scene with a child rape is depicted in the movie.The victimized child is played by 12-year-old Dakota Fanning, and while in no way is rape being advocated, the real life crisis is displayed.

Realism in cinema is something directors are striving for and while viewers may be appalled, a beauty of film creation can be seen.

Aesthetics in film are part of what goes on in the movie-making process. Look at “Midnight Cowboy,” which also features a rape scene. The 1969 X-rated feature won three Oscars, a truly momentous cinematic achievement.

Beyond the acclaim garnered by the Academy, “Midnight Cowboy” and “Hounddog” exercise the First Amendment right to show audiences an authentic look at how some events take place.

People could consider this a vulgar and tasteless look at life because a child is violated, but in no way was the actress conned into playing a role in a scene in which she was uncomfortable performing.

The First Amendment gives legal rights to the freedom of speech and press, and while the Motion Picture Association of America, which is responsible for movie rating systems, may not be directly linked with the body of the press, it is guarded by the freedom of expression and is not trying to be obscene or play into the prurient interests of the movie-going public by allowing the release of “Hounddog.”

Art should be a protected form of expression and, although it may not always be tasteful or regarded as high class, the mission to entertain and inform must be played out.

Yet again, this is not an advocacy for rape, but rather for the protection of expressions of cinematic honesty through the power of what Congress has given an opportunity to showcase.

Sports editor Marcus Murphree for the editorial board.