TV: Sex, Drugs & Rock and Roll - Read the article in the Daily Mail

[Wing-nut2]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

[Northerner52]

Horrible article.

[Chi-Town]

Keep in mind that the Daily Mail is a British tabloid.

[kathyspear]

You gotta love the Daily Mail. :)

kathy

[wisbad1]

Horrible article.
I agree, you can’t say something nice, be quiet

[Stu from NYC]

Who knew they have all these orgies here.

Is there a club for that?

[Garywt]

I hate when some of this crap gets dragged out. For us to joke around is one thing but when others bring it up... I am sure it is not everyone’s cup of teas but for the most part, things are great.

[villageuser]

I agree, you can’t say something nice, be quiet

Ummmm... what about freedom of speech? Exposes by journalists? That saying applies to gossip.

[La lamy]

Sensationalism. Trying to buy attention. It's working. :ohdear:

[Bwolf1]

In the article he compared The Villages negatively with Manhattan in size and wealth. But he fails to note that unlike Manhattan we don’t have a murder, rape, mugging or armed robbery every 2 minutes. Yep, The Villages is such a bad place. This article is ridiculous.

[Catalina36]

The other retirement communities who wish they were as successful as The Villages were the ones behind all of this exaggerated BS. There is one idiot who states he comes here and lives in his van, uses our facilities to try and hook up with lonely rich woman. I mean really where did they find this jerk. Then they talk about people having sex in golf carts. What do they expect?? Like none of this goes on in any other city in America. The extend of what some people or company would do to try and downgrade the success of a retirement community it just blows my mind. I know THE VILLAGES is a GREAT PLACE to live and so do you. If anyone watches this BS video and believes all of this crap and allows this video to change their mind about The Villages, well then they must be very simple minded people and deserve to go and live elsewhere.

[merrymini]

I did not read the article because I know the daily mail to be a rag. Why bother?

[kendi]

Ummmm... what about freedom of speech? Exposes by journalists? That saying applies to gossip.

What about having high standards? Respectful journalism over gossip? With freedom comes responsibly.

[dewilson58]

I did not read the article because I know the daily mail to be a rag. Why bother?
Same reason people slow down and look at a car accident.

[sdeikenberry]

This link requires I disable my ad blocker for their site...not going to do that...just sayin'

[Lonnieme2]

Oh who cares what this guy films in his documentary! No matter how perfect a place may be, in this life true perfection cannot be reached. I have visited the Villages and what the developers have done is simply amazing!! We live in the Atlanta area... one of the armpits of this nation and my husband and I cannot wait to get the h*ll out of here.
After a life of hard work and following the rules, there is nothing wrong with living in "ignorance" by blocking out as much of the truth as possible concerning the human condition. I want to live in the adult Disneyland for the rest of my days! Also, when you bring such a large group of people together, you are going to find some who simply do not fit. These people are not being held prisoner and should leave to find THEIR happiness. There is somewhere on this Earth where they can afford to live and that matches their wants and needs. It is unfortunate that these people are bringing others down with their negativity. Didn't you all move to the Villages to get away from that kind of speech?
Additionally, with this large a population, you will find some people whose ethical and moral beliefs don't live up to what most would consider "normal." It's easy... you don't associate with these people. I find the article ridiculous and my husband and I are still moving to the Villages when I retire in 5 years. Let's dance and be merry! See you all there...

[Guitarman1951]

Wingnut why would you post this ridiculous article?

[meboyle]

As an adult, I can go out and get anything I want. To orgy or not! Lol
Seems to me rags like the DM have been trying to tear down our bubble from the beginning. Yet, we have grown 37%. Ha.
Reads like an adolescent tantrum. Full of envy, and exaggerations.
Naaa....it’s the best place for me and my guy. We love it hear. We love our neighbors, and how well the area is kept. No junk cars in a driveway! There is as much to do if you want that, or just sit around in the warm weather, and breathe!
It’s a caboose, and I’m going to enjoy the ride. God bless America! Stay home if you don’t like it!😊

[Kgcetm]

My wife and I saw the movie on Netflix last week. If we didn't know what it was about we would not have recognized The Villages as we know them. Oppenheim creates this story to support an agenda which he has yet to announce. Some of what he reports exists at every level of every society but the manner which this irresponsible novelist portrays TV approaches libel. Gigolos sleeping in vans while they troll the pools and rec centers for rick widows? Oppenheim is a cheap novelist whose works should be bound in cheap paperback with half clad people on the cover. If for a moment he thinks this is journalism then he may find work with a major network or newspaper reporting what he wants the news to be. This is trash writing trash. Don't waste your money

[karostay]

Only thing missing roll of toilet paper to accompany this crap
You wonder as a nation why were so misinformed...Sheep Sheep Sheep

[wamley]

So a young 25 yr old +/- privileged white male (white privilage being one of the operative phrases of the day) that attended private school from Pre K to 12th grade (costs today $24,000 to $35,000 a yr)then onto Harvard has documented the faux lifestyle we all live here in The Villages. This young man lived the real life that many of us poorer ignorant people didn't have and brought us to the Villages.
He was looking for the DARK and REAL side of the Villages. Well I have news for him, just based on my 77yrs of working and living in NYC, if your looking for it, you will easily find no matter where you look. I'm sure it's at Havard as well. Perhaps not those descibed in this article, well maybe the sex and orgy part, but certainly not those that struugle financially.
People make money at everything and picking at the scab of an otherwise great large community is the latest victim.

[rustyp]

This link requires I disable my ad blocker for their site...not going to do that...just sayin'

Here is the highlights from the Daily Mail article

It hasn't been the fantasy land I thought it would be': Documentary goes inside 'creepy' Florida utopia for senior citizens that it claims has sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, drunken debauchery and make-believe history
- New documentary, 'Some Kind of Heaven' explores the dark underside of America's largest retirement community known as 'The Villages' in central Florida with a notorious swingers scene
- The community was designed to be a manicured fantasy land for seniors aged 55+ ; grandchildren and visitors under the age minimum are strictly prohibited to visit for more than 30 calendar days
- It's dubbed 'the Disneyland for retirees' because the neighborhoods are designed like a theme park to imitate old town squares, complete with make-believe histories; residents say its like living in a 'bubble'
- The developers own the a TV channel, multiple radio stations and newspaper that only prints positive news
- Critics say The Villages are like a creepy Stepford cult for Baby Boomers with Orwellian-like rules that are dictated by an elusive family worth billions of dollars
- The Villages were 'designed to hide all of the problems of everyday life' says first time documentarian, Lance Oppenheim - his film follows the lives of four seniors that live on the fringe of the fantasy

[tvbound]

I think some people who are attacking the filmmaker, are missing the irony that you're just making his point about how much pressure is put on pretending everything is perfect in TV. We are moving there with our eyes wide open as to the good and bad, because we believe the good far outweighs the bad. However, we're not going to shut our eyes as to some of the negatives - and pretend that they don't exist.

[Fairway Cruises]

Well, well, well, an expose of The Villages! What a crock of nonsense! I'm a Brit who has visited the villages, and I have lived in gated communities in Texas and Florida. The U.K. does not have anything similar to such communities. I gues you could say becuase life is a village in many parts of the UK and the need for a 'Fantasy' one is zero. True to an extent. But the Brits simple do not understand why American's build such harmonious communities with golf courses and the like. It's that "I'm not being told what to do" attitude, which is a misconception. I guess next it will be considered 'White Privilage'. Personally it's a glorious idea, and who wouldn't want to live in a smart, well kept community with all the services and leisure facilities at your finger tips? Safe and atractively designed, without the grime of big city life, freeways and traffic, the hussle and bussle of the unwashed masses, crime always around the corner. Yes it's a utopia, but so what? I'd live there in a heartbeat. Is it perfect? No, but any community or town will have some fault lines, with individuals misbehaviour, those that grow to dislike the existence of rules or 'deed' restrictions. But as a retired community it encourages you to be active, live your life to the full if you so wish, and not fade away in surbuban life with your pipe and sleepers waiting for the pearly gates to openfor you. You don't have to buy into all of it, which can be a little excessive, and too pre-ordained as it were. Lead your own life within this great community which was built least we forget, to provide a golfing heaven - a sport you can play even when old! If you are not a golfer it still is very appealing. Hot Springs Village in Arkansas is a similar concept but nowhere near as thoughtful or beautifully designed. There is no attack on your freedom of choice, live here or don't. Orgies? Well I guess it takes all kinds (if true) and any city with a large population has many facets going on, and so what of it? I bet people reading the article are now wondering who these might be...ohh Lord! It's not all roses, life has problems wherever you are, but if I could retire and live anywhere this place would be high on my list.

[Wing-nut2]

Wingnut why would you post this ridiculous article?

I posted so everyone could the ridiculous s&$t that was written about TV. I do NOT agree with this.

[rgoosman]

Warning
If you open the link you will be bombarded with intrusive adds. I'll bet you don't make it to the end before you give up.

[Waltdisney4life]

Trash just like all articles in papers and on network tv!

[Dgodin]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)
I must not be one of the cool kids. I never get invited to orgies. And I would have thought it would be included in a lifestyle visit.

[jnsbill]

Did he film this in some parallel universe that I've never been to?

[richs631]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

That website is based in the UK and is a total rag. Never read anything positive on that site and deleted it years ago

[Bay Kid]

Just goes to show nowadays that you can write anything you want. Lies don't matter because you are the free press.

[Stanajudy]

So, the author picks 4 people out of 130,000 residents and bases his article on them? Really reliable reporting!

[lakesg]

This is how rumors start!

[davem4616]

people are going to write what they want to write and believe whatever they choose to believe

a year ago when we were in Aruba a couple that we met asked us where were lived....when I said 'in The Villages' he came back with
'oh isn't that the place that has all the STD's?'

I came back with 'not anymore, there's free condoms in all the restrooms'...

[karostay]

people are going to write what they want to write and believe whatever they choose to believe

a year ago when we were in Aruba a couple that we met asked us where were lived....when I said 'in The Villages' he came back with
'oh isn't that the place that has all the STD's?'

I came back with 'not anymore, there's free condoms in all the restrooms'...

Where! ? I'm down to my last dozen

[Two Bills]

The Daily Mail has the best weekly Television Guide in UK.
The author of this piece is probably an ex Orlando Sentinal hack!

[J1ceasar]

Very true. Trolls , golf cart accidents,drugs, sex on the square, big egos, poverty, all do happen here .

[J1ceasar]

Unfortunately it's very true that when the doctor hears where you live they test your blood immediately

[PJackpot]

This makes much more sense, and it's free to watch. LOL. Sunset Acres Village – 1Funny.com (https://1funny.com/sunset-acres-village/)

[MacScuba]

Impressed at the length of the review. He practically retyped the entire movie. We saw the movie and would consider it a movie about 4 sad people that happened to live in TV, not a movie about TV.

[justjim]

Trash just like all articles in papers and on network tv!

Hard for me to see any correlation of network television with the Daily Mail. “all articles in papers”? Anyway, It’s a big big stretch to The Daily Mail garbage. 🙃

[Spalumbos62]

Whenever the conversation comes up that we have a place down in the villages, it never fails st least one person in the group says "I understand std's run rampant there" it blows my mind that its the very 1st thing said...everytime

[MaryShields]

So untrue!

[Joe C.]

I watched the movie......the scenery was familiar, but the characters were weird.....not like the people in TV who I know. When the movie was over, I just sat there thinking.....man, if you believe this crap, you are going to be depressed. Maybe even call the suicide hotline. The movie was that bad. I think someone had a bone to pick or wanted revenge. The movie was a waste of time.

[PJackpot]

"In the article he compared The Villages negatively with Manhattan in size and wealth. But he fails to note that unlike Manhattan we don’t have a murder, rape, mugging or armed robbery every 2 minutes. Yep, The Villages is such a bad place. This article is ridiculous."


Not to mention, Manhattan has 47 skyscrapers and over 1.5 million residents.

[PJackpot]

Very true. Trolls , golf cart accidents,drugs, sex on the square, big egos, poverty, all do happen here .

Listening to this buffoon, you would think that's all people engage in.

[DIver0258]

Very true. Trolls , golf cart accidents,drugs, sex on the square, big egos, poverty, all do happen here .

This can be found everywhere. Why would anyone assume The Villages would be different than any other large community. To assume that everyone loves it here is absurd. Documentary was done to promote the agenda of the film maker. I for one take what he did in stride. Yellow press sensationalism at its finest. The Villages may not be for everyone, as for our family we are thriving here. The developers have created an amazing lifestyle for those that choose to embrace it.

[Skip]

Sensationalism. Trying to buy attention. It's working. :ohdear:

Yes and home sales just shot up this week because of this.
Welcome Brits !

Skip

[MandoMan]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

My first thought was to say “What utter garbage!’’ But then I read the entire article and found myself laughing. Part of it IS “utter garbage.’’ Orgies? Swingers wearing gold shoes or a single red button or a shirt label turned inside out? Really? Where are all these swingers when you need them? (Actually, I do know a handful, but they are rare and rather lonely.) Black market viagra? What? Why, when a hundred doctors will give us a prescription? A town full of drunken people? Cheap drinks? Well, so what?

As I read on, I realized that this article is actually a terrific public relations puff piece. If I read this, I would LONG to move to the villages. Oh, wait, I DID read pieces like this, and books, and I DID move here, and the reality, even though curbed at present by the virus, is even better than I had hoped. I’m having a wonderful time here! The “Daily Mail” is a British paper. I’m expecting a big influx of British people here in the next few years as a result of reading the paper. Welcome!

Racism? What’s the sense of racism when everyone already looks like you? Classism? Everyone who lives here has prospered, and hardly anyone is rich or poor. Social class comes down to whether you have a courtyard villa, a patio villa, or a home on a golf course. Ageism? Yeah, we look at the crime reports and see that it’s those young people causing most of the problems. Safety? This is the safest town of its size on earth. The article complains about rules about lawn care, but look at those photos! It’s the rules that keep The Villages looking like a resort, a place where everywhere I go I can see beauty.

Hooray for us! Maybe we come here to grow old and die, but what a way to go!

[PJackpot]

Here is the highlights from the Daily Mail article

It hasn't been the fantasy land I thought it would be': Documentary goes inside 'creepy' Florida utopia for senior citizens that it claims has sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, drunken debauchery and make-believe history
- New documentary, 'Some Kind of Heaven' explores the dark underside of America's largest retirement community known as 'The Villages' in central Florida with a notorious swingers scene
- The community was designed to be a manicured fantasy land for seniors aged 55+ ; grandchildren and visitors under the age minimum are strictly prohibited to visit for more than 30 calendar days
- It's dubbed 'the Disneyland for retirees' because the neighborhoods are designed like a theme park to imitate old town squares, complete with make-believe histories; residents say its like living in a 'bubble'
- The developers own the a TV channel, multiple radio stations and newspaper that only prints positive news
- Critics say The Villages are like a creepy Stepford cult for Baby Boomers with Orwellian-like rules that are dictated by an elusive family worth billions of dollars
- The Villages were 'designed to hide all of the problems of everyday life' says first time documentarian, Lance Oppenheim - his film follows the lives of four seniors that live on the fringe of the fantasy

What the hell is meant by "live on the fringe", anyway?

[Scbang]

I don't see it on Netflix.. Does anyone?

[dhdallas]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

The point of the movie is that you will take your problems with you even if you live in a “Utopian Society”. Moving to The Villages will not magically cure your chronic depression or fears. It will not erase guilt complexes, PTSD and a myriad of psychological neuroses and problems. That is why the director went out of his way to find people who came here thinking that living in TV would cure their personal issues and they would be wondrously happy. Of course they are not typical of most of those who live here.

While I disagree with the headline you quoted I found that most of what the Daily Mail said to be true. The Villages is as fake as a two dollar bill. And the “Stepford Wives'' reference is not too far off the mark. The cookie-cutter houses with the imitation town squares remind me of a “Twilight Zone” episode in which a couple wakes up in a picture perfect town only to find it is all fake and they are living in a giant alien’s terrarium. TV is a place designed to insulate its residents from the harsh realities that exist in the world today. It is a gated & exclusive community for middle class white conservatives.

I am not anti-TV. The Villages is great for making new friends of like minds and ages. No noisy children or delinquent teenagers. Pristine surroundings. Absence of street crime. Every type of club for every interest. Activities geared for the 55+ age group. Nightly entertainment. The list goes on and on. It is a perfect place to live if you are not a born loner as I am. I was into social distancing long before it became de rigueur. My wife insisted we buy here and she loves everything about The Villages as does everyone we have met.

Go on and enjoy the movie. Don’t be so uptight that you cannot laugh at yourself and try not to miss the real message.

[Villagesgal]

Lived here 20 years. So much of this article is pure crap. Find anyone who lives on the fringes, as they say and of course they are not happy and don't fit it, that's exactly why they live on the fringes. Interesting they say the golf carts all look like hummers yet in their photo, they all look like golf carts. Such rubbish. I won't bother to watch the film, I'm too busy living in a wonderful community and enjoying my life thank you. There are so many out and out falsehoods that this film is no more than sour Grapes.

[Fiverfella]

This article saddened me.The Daily Mail is a third rate newspaper in the UK . The last four years they have said nothing positive about the USA and usually report utter crap. Please don’t judge Brits by this rag and I apologize on behalf of all Ex Pats for this drivel. Even the UK suffers from the lying press.
The Villages is utopia compared to the mealy minded British society. Don’t read this trash.

[stebooo]

Not sure why you would post this. Only a few things resemble reality and that would be a change in what's is being built today vs yesterday.

The good things and the bad things all exist no matter were we choose to retire. Who mmakecs a documentary and tries to find, the slouch guy looking for a handout, a woman who isn't happy. We are all aging. We slowly become unhappy for obvious reasons. That doesn't mean we stay in our home up north where almost nothing that we can readily do here isn't there. This is a great place for a season. I haven't had std's, nor have I ever found the swingers club. Are they here probably. Just like back home

[Gpsma]

So many people here think this was a documentary about TV.
It wasnt. It was a doc about living in a planned community with lots to do but, because of your circumstances, its not heaven.
For those that continue drinking the Kool-Aid and enjoying their life..continue to do so.
But do not ignore there are people here with many issues....
Lonely widows and widowers.
Too many incidences of domestic violence
Too many people who abuse alcohol.
Too many “City Fire” Romeos

Dont be blinded by the fact that you did find Heaven..but dont ignore that many others didnt find it.

That is the point of the movie.

[miharris]

The article was almost as bad as the movie. I found it ironic that the movie that criticizes the TV as being insulated from reality was itself totally void of reality when it comes to life in TV. The director found the 4 most dysfunctional people possible, and did everything in his power to portray TV as a pathetic version of "Gods waiting room". We have lived here for 5 years, and I have never met anyone even remotely similar to the 4 people in his movie. On the the contrary, we have met hundreds of people with varied interests, backgrounds and beliefs, and we manage to get along with a minimum of fuss and drama. I think some people simply feel a need to criticize and tear down, as opposed to creating something positive.

[Viking55]

Having been to The Villages several times, and just recently buying a home here, I found this article to be hilariously biased and untrue. You have to wonder why some (so called) "journalist" would feel it necessary to write a hit piece like this. Whatever.

I was wondering if there is or has been an article or video portrayal of The Villages that is fair minded and accurate.

Or is The Villages doomed to be parodied by people unhappy with their lot in life?

Gary

[rsalisbu]

Wow - they found 4 people who didn't like the villages

[duffysmom]

6 Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

[jaye_wolfe]

Just to be clear, Government(Legislature, Judicial, Executive) Law enforcement, Religion, neighbors(Singularly or In mass) have no business in someone's bedroom. No matter how many people are there, as long as they are there by their own fee will.

[golfing eagles]

6 Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

'It hasn't been the fantasy land I thought it would be': Documentary goes inside 'creepy' Florida utopia for senior citizens that it claims has sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, drunken debauchery and make-believe history
New documentary, 'Some Kind of Heaven' explores the dark underside of America's largest retirement community known as 'The Villages' in central Florida with a notorious swingers scene
The community was designed to be a manicured fantasy land for seniors aged 55+ ; grandchildren and visitors under the age minimum are strictly prohibited to visit for more than 30 calendar days
It's dubbed 'the Disneyland for retirees' because the neighborhoods are designed like a theme park to imitate old town squares, complete with make-believe histories; residents say its like living in a 'bubble'
The developers own a TV channel, multiple radio stations and newspaper that only prints positive news
Critics say The Villages are like a creepy Stepford cult for Baby Boomers with Orwellian-like rules that are dictated by an elusive family worth billions of dollars
The Villages were 'designed to hide all of the problems of everyday life' says first time documentarian, Lance Oppenheim - his film follows the lives of four seniors that live on the fringe of the fantasy

I don't know where this place is, but it certainly is not The Villages I live in

[Villagevip]

Thinking all the Brits that read the article(saying to themselves "who knew"), are making plans to visit THE VILLAGES...Get ready for another British invasion... : )

[Velvet]

The person writing this ”documentary” must be a competitor of TV. My uncle has lived here from 1990’s and my parents from the late 1990’s on. While there may be a very small segment of TV population that participates in these type of events it has never came to my uncle’s family or my parents’ attention in 30 years.

Total rubbish! In my opinion.

[chrissy2231]

inside the utopian 'disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | daily mail online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/inside-utopian-disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

we live in paradise!

[terenceanne]

That newspaper is just a tabloid - same as most so-called news shows, all nonsense.

The movie does not show the villages in any particular light in my opinion. Watched it for free and that is the only way to do it :)

Well off to golf now followed by a sex orgy on the porch at Bonifay Country Club - who knew it was so much fun here. :1rotfl:

[Velvet]

Wait... I like the rock ‘n roll idea. Drugs are likely prescription and sex is mostly fantasy. Guns and golf cart more likely.

[Spike380]

The BOY writing the article needs a fact checker

[I'm Popeye!]

A squatter living in the street of the Villages, looking for a "Nurse with Cash", sounds weird and dangerous.

[Nick B]

So are there orgies or not? At the average age of villagers I hope not.

[La lamy]

So are there orgies or not? At the average age of villagers I hope not.

Loofah on golf cart, red button on shirt, tag sticking out and gold shoes show you are a swinger?!! OMG I'm checking and rechecking my tags before I leave the house. And please DO NOT misconstrue my gold flip flops for anything sexual!!!

[Girlcopper]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)
British tabloid meaning trash paper. Why woud you give it a second look? Ridiculous

[DrBrutyle109]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)
Jean Kirkpatrick once said....everybody is entitled to their opinion...even if it’s wrong. That’s what can be said about this film. I don’t recall anyone saying The Villages was perfect when I bought here. If you don’t like it...MOVE!!!!! It’s definitely not for everyone. You can give your opinion, but that’s one person.

[Judy n Ron]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

Just found the documentary on Amazon Prime. It's downloadable there and other streaming options.

[caljeff]

Warning
If you open the link you will be bombarded with intrusive adds. I'll bet you don't make it to the end before you give up.

I read to the end.

[transplanted]

'Jealousy is such an ugly thing' - is what comes to mind when I see stuff like this. When someone sees something successful and people enjoying themselves on a daily basis, they want to poke holes in it, usually because their own lives are not as contented. I've lived all over the world in 12 more years of civil service followed by 30 years of active military service and I've never been happier any where (now being retired may contribute to that :icon_wink:). I got a text last night from a former co-worker that just said "You guys are famous again" with a link to The Daily Beast article on the recent film.
They can say what they want, I'll just continue to enjoy the H out of life and watch the investment in my home grow. :popcorn:

[mikemalloy]

You get the impression that if you don't live in a place where every building is covered with graffiti, where every park is infested with drug dealers and users, where every walkway between buildings smells like urine, then you're some sort of elite racist. What actually makes TV a wonderful place to live is the lack of political meddling in our lives. No mayor, no city council, no dictates as to what is the "proper" way to live. No wonder rags like the Mail trash our happy home.

[karostay]

TOTV closed the thread about super bowl commercials for some reason but the let this garbage continue I don't get it

[Topspinmo]

Ummmm... what about freedom of speech? Exposes by journalists? That saying applies to gossip.

We know how that works don’t we:)

[Topspinmo]

The point of the movie is that you will take your problems with you even if you live in a “Utopian Society”. Moving to The Villages will not magically cure your chronic depression or fears. It will not erase guilt complexes, PTSD and a myriad of psychological neuroses and problems. That is why the director went out of his way to find people who came here thinking that living in TV would cure their personal issues and they would be wondrously happy. Of course they are not typical of most of those who live here.

While I disagree with the headline you quoted I found that most of what the Daily Mail said to be true. The Villages is as fake as a two dollar bill. And the “Stepford Wives'' reference is not too far off the mark. The cookie-cutter houses with the imitation town squares remind me of a “Twilight Zone” episode in which a couple wakes up in a picture perfect town only to find it is all fake and they are living in a giant alien’s terrarium. TV is a place designed to insulate its residents from the harsh realities that exist in the world today. It is a gated & exclusive community for middle class white conservatives.

I am not anti-TV. The Villages is great for making new friends of like minds and ages. No noisy children or delinquent teenagers. Pristine surroundings. Absence of street crime. Every type of club for every interest. Activities geared for the 55+ age group. Nightly entertainment. The list goes on and on. It is a perfect place to live if you are not a born loner as I am. I was into social distancing long before it became de rigueur. My wife insisted we buy here and she loves everything about The Villages as does everyone we have met.

Go on and enjoy the movie. Don’t be so uptight that you cannot laugh at yourself and try not to miss the real message.

IMO Moving to villages not solve any personal problems they had and moved away from. If fact it will probably make them worse for most people that have uncontrolled problems?

[Topspinmo]

Having been to The Villages several times, and just recently buying a home here, I found this article to be hilariously biased and untrue. You have to wonder why some (so called) "journalist" would feel it necessary to write a hit piece like this. Whatever.

I was wondering if there is or has been an article or video portrayal of The Villages that is fair minded and accurate.

Or is The Villages doomed to be parodied by people unhappy with their lot in life?

Gary


They seek out the 4% perverted with sensational headlines, otherwise no one would want to read it or view it.

[DAVES]

Inside the Utopian 'Disneyland' for retirees that belies a sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9147745/Inside-Utopian-Disneyland-retirees-belies-sinister-underbelly-racism-orgies.html)

Reality is negative sells. Would anyone read, watch anything that said it is perfect.
Reality, for people who complain perhaps they are so bored they have nothing else better to do.

The Villages is so large, you can find almost anything both positive and negative. Racism is the new battle cry. Actually a very powerful TOOL. The charge is an assumption that you are guilty. Proving that you are not racist is simply a pathetic waste of time.

Far as the Villages simple reality If, you do not like it leave. Nothing can or ever will be perfect.

[DAVES]

'Jealousy is such an ugly thing' - is what comes to mind when I see stuff like this. When someone sees something successful and people enjoying themselves on a daily basis, they want to poke holes in it, usually because their own lives are not as contented. I've lived all over the world in 12 more years of civil service followed by 30 years of active military service and I've never been happier any where (now being retired may contribute to that :icon_wink:). I got a text last night from a former co-worker that just said "You guys are famous again" with a link to The Daily Beast article on the recent film.
They can say what they want, I'll just continue to enjoy the H out of life and watch the investment in my home grow. :popcorn:

Jealousy is a negative term. People have a need to defend their choices. Our former neighbors a a bit under the snow right now. Tempted as it is I do not send them e-mails that it is about 70 degrees today.

Far as e-mails,"You guys are famous again," many most people do not realize when you send an e-mail, you make a lot of false assumptions. You do not know what else is going on for the person who opens the e-mail. They do not see your face as the words are delivered. You cannot sort of spin back if it is not read in the spirit it is sent.

I do not have many friends. My definition of a friend is someone who can tell you that you are being a fool and you are not offended but you reaction is I did not realize that.
A friend would tell you privately.

[bimmertl]

Watch this review of the movie. Reviewer makes it clear that the "documentary" is really a movie, and it's not actually about "The Villages", it's just about the characters in the movie, one of whom doesn't live in The Villages.

Some Kind of Heaven movie review after my Lifestyle Preview Visit to The Villages FL by Rusty Nelson - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBah2cRkQsA)

[Number 10 GI]

Unfortunately it's very true that when the doctor hears where you live they test your blood immediately

Really? :ohdear: I need to ask our doctor why he didn't test the wife and me.

[xcaligirl]

I hate when some of this crap gets dragged out. For us to joke around is one thing but when others bring it up... I am sure it is not everyone’s cup of teas but for the most part, things are great.
I totally agree!! It's always someone who doesn't even live here to bring up the B.S. I don't know why people can't just mind their own business!

[Number 10 GI]

If this piece of garbage is what is considered a "documentary" and "journalism" we are in big trouble, especially if people believe it. This 24 year old kid doesn't have enough life experience to decide what breakfast cereal he likes best.

[Shelby62]

We tell people that they put penicillin in the beer. That seems to stop any more questions!

[Bilyclub]

Watch this review of the movie. Reviewer makes it clear that the "documentary" is really a movie, and it's not actually about "The Villages", it's just about the characters in the movie, one of whom doesn't live in The Villages.

Some Kind of Heaven movie review after my Lifestyle Preview Visit to The Villages FL by Rusty Nelson - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBah2cRkQsA)

I like Rusty, but he's wrong about the movie.
“There was something relatable about living in a bubble,” said Oppenheim, a south Florida native who began the project in 2018 as a short for his college thesis. Yet “there’s something deeply terrifying about the fact that this is a utopian/dystopian experiment that is so wildly successful that a whole demographic of people have chosen to live inside of something like this.”

Yes, the flick is about the Villages. Would they make a movie in OTOW? Hell no!

[DAVES]

Ummmm... what about freedom of speech? Exposes by journalists? That saying applies to gossip.

Freedom of speech the press etc. I recently read a book about the Wright brothers complete with reprinted letters etc. Reminder their first powered flight was 1903.
It was interesting them complaining about newspaper coverage. Articles where the author had not idea what he was talking about . As well as foreign papers diminishing
what the Americans did and falsely boosting their own people.

We tend to think these questions, issues are new.

[DAVES]

I totally agree!! It's always someone who doesn't even live here to bring up the B.S. I don't know why people can't just mind their own business!


Yet, we are reading this.

I strangely, and it is work to do so, judge all by the same rules.

[karostay]

Wife and I tell people when they talk about the Village being a STD capital we have been have sex since we moved here haven't contracted anything yet

[Marty94]

I clicked my gold, sequined Sperry’s together three times... nope, still not a swinger.

[jimjamuser]

Horrible article.
I liked it. It may have hit too close to home for most TV Landers.

[jimjamuser]

Who knew they have all these orgies here.

Is there a club for that?
Yes, it is called " STDs anonymous".

[jimjamuser]

Warning
If you open the link you will be bombarded with intrusive adds. I'll bet you don't make it to the end before you give up.
I made it to the end. It was like running a marathon.

[jimjamuser]

Loofah on golf cart, red button on shirt, tag sticking out and gold shoes show you are a swinger?!! OMG I'm checking and rechecking my tags before I leave the house. And please DO NOT misconstrue my gold flip flops for anything sexual!!!
Gold flip-flops are code for "foot fetish". Watch out for who may be staring at your feet.

[stebooo]

I've seen mr van. I'm guessing he's a pretty good salesman.

[jimjamuser]

I've seen mr van. I'm guessing he's a pretty good salesman.
He thinks a lot of himself. He even thinks that he is good looking.

[Velvet]

We tell people that they put penicillin in the beer. That seems to stop any more questions!

Love this! Plan to borrow it from you.

[Packer Fan]

I like Rusty, but he's wrong about the movie.
“There was something relatable about living in a bubble,” said Oppenheim, a south Florida native who began the project in 2018 as a short for his college thesis. Yet “there’s something deeply terrifying about the fact that this is a utopian/dystopian experiment that is so wildly successful that a whole demographic of people have chosen to live inside of something like this.”

Yes, the flick is about the Villages. Would they make a movie in OTOW? Hell no!

I agree. First of all, it is not a utopian experiment at all, don't know where he got that from. The reason it is wildly successful is that it is a wonderful place. The real quote should be how terrifying it is that anyone would want to live in hellholes like NYC, Chicago, or LA with all the crime and ALL THE RULES! The discussion about rules is laughable, since there are way more laws in the big cities than in TV. So you have to cut your grass and not build weird additions or have sheds in your yard. So what, that means your neighbors can't do it and drive your property values down! Heck, there are more rules about Winter parking in Milwaukee than in my deed restrictions in TV!. :1rotfl:

[Packer Fan]

Wife and I tell people when they talk about the Village being a STD capital we have been have sex since we moved here haven't contracted anything yet

I always say "Why do you care, you sound Jealous"

[Packer Fan]

Overall, I think this comes down to 2 things. First, when something is successful, everyone feels they have to tear it down to make themselves feel better. Second, for some reason, journalists and filmmakers feel that negativity cells, despite a lot of evidence to the contrary. I don't really get it. The evidence would suggest that positivity sells too - have you noticed how successful DISNEY is? How about Star Wars? Funny romantic comedies on TV and Movies? The ultimate example? Hallmark movies. Right here in TV we have the Daily Sun (the only paper I will ever read) that is very positive. The guy who made this movie is trying to get famous, and he felt it had to be negative to get the attention. Well look, he accomplished his task.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Point by point:

Here is the highlights from the Daily Mail article

It hasn't been the fantasy land I thought it would be': Documentary goes inside 'creepy' Florida utopia for senior citizens that it claims has sinister underbelly of racism, orgies, drunken debauchery and make-believe history

The documentary does not make claims of a "sinister underbelly" of racism, orgies, or drunken debauchery. The make-believe history is an actual thing. The signs on buildings around Sumter Landing tell a 100% completely false history of the square, and this is also 100% intentional, designed to make it LOOK like an historic town. That's the whole point.



- New documentary, 'Some Kind of Heaven' explores the dark underside of America's largest retirement community known as 'The Villages' in central Florida with a notorious swingers scene


False. It doesn't explore that at all, and obviously most of us know it doesn't have a notorious swingers scene.

- The community was designed to be a manicured fantasy land for seniors aged 55+ ; grandchildren and visitors under the age minimum are strictly prohibited to visit for more than 30 calendar days

The above is mostly true; the "strictly prohibited" is not "strictly enforced." But otherwise it is true.

- It's dubbed 'the Disneyland for retirees' because the neighborhoods are designed like a theme park to imitate old town squares, complete with make-believe histories; residents say its like living in a 'bubble'
True.

- The developers own the a TV channel, multiple radio stations and newspaper that only prints positive news
Mostly true. They own an AM and FM station (that means multiple), newspaper that prints (mostly) positive news, and I believe they have a TV station, VNN, as well.

- Critics say The Villages are like a creepy Stepford cult for Baby Boomers with Orwellian-like rules that are dictated by an elusive family worth billions of dollars

True. Critics really do say that.

- The Villages were 'designed to hide all of the problems of everyday life' says first time documentarian, Lance Oppenheim - his film follows the lives of four seniors that live on the fringe of the fantasy

Somewhat true. The Villages was designed to minimize the perception of "problems" of every day life. They even used to advertise that in their old CD and brochures.

Definitely true: Larry Oppenheim's film really does follow the lives of 4 seniors who live on the fringe of the fantaxy.

Not true: This isn't Oppenheim's first documentary.

I don't read the Daily News because it's a UK version of the Weekly World News and the National Enquirer. But if that's the take-away from the "article" (I use that term loosely) then it's not all that inaccurate.

[Bilyclub]

The "TV Station" is a leased cable channel that is more like a community calendar. It may even be provided by Comcast as part of the franchise agreement. Does Spectrum carry it ? Either way, it is,not a true TV station.
WVLG is on 3 different frequencies due to FCC power restrictions on transmitters. It's all the same content, same call sign, so all the same station
'A nearby radio billboard reads: 'Boss Hogg Radio: No Rap and No Crap.' Nearby, really it's how many miles away on I-75 and has nothing to do with TV. Though I love the slogan.

[Barborv]

As I read the article out of curiosity, and having watched the movie(which I wouldn't and didn't pay for)what came to mind is why is this article out to make us feel guilty or wrongful about wanting enjoyment in our lives. We all worked hard our whole life, sick and disgusted of the crap around us (depending on where you lived) and desire this so called utopia. I for one LOVE the made up town squares and the piped in music, and the beautiful landscaping, and driving along in my golf cart, etc. And lets not forget the clubs and shows and activities!! What's so wrong with wanting to be in such a beautiful place. So I should stay in my home in Long Island NY, deal with the freezing cold, go either to the supermarket or doctors and sit and wait for the grandkids to visit! I don't even want to take a walk around the corner. It's so blah. In the villages everything is at your fingertips or front door. It sure beats sitting at home.
And as far as the movie, Lets face it, no matter WHERE you are you can't change WHO you are. These 4 individuals would be the same whether living in their home towns or on a tropical Island. I just think especially for the two women in the film how much worse their lives would be if they weren't in the villages and didnt have all these choices to get out of the house. And the article had to bring the politics in it too. Had to bring up the man saying white power(which he should never of said)(it does not depict the people of the Villages) but they omitted the cause of his words. The big mouth screaming obscenities and egging him on and blocking his golf cart and the shirt she was wearing, which he took the bait and out of anger or frustration I suppose blurted the comment because of her shirt. Typical media. I digress, Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. The Villages is what you make it to be for YOU!!

[Sutty]

This is a UK based news paper referred as the daily fail back in the UK because of its many inaccuracies and lies, if it gets any worse it could run for president.
Once again opinions of people who have never set foot in the village and experienced the wonderful people, clubs and facilities!

[Papa_lecki]

The "TV Station" is a leased cable channel that is more like a community calendar. It may even be provided by Comcast as part of the franchise agreement. Does Spectrum carry it ? Either way, it is,not a true TV station.
WVLG is on 3 different frequencies due to FCC power restrictions on transmitters. It's all the same content, same call sign, so all the same station
'A nearby radio billboard reads: 'Boss Hogg Radio: No Rap and No Crap.' Nearby, really it's how many miles away on I-75 and has nothing to do with TV. Though I love the slogan.

There is a captive group of customers who are about the same age - they like a similar genre of music (at least from the same era); and buy the same type of products and are interested in similar events/news - no one filled that space with a radio station, so the developer did.
If I started a similar radio station and it was more appealing to TV residents, you would listen to mine.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Overall, I think this comes down to 2 things. First, when something is successful, everyone feels they have to tear it down to make themselves feel better. Second, for some reason, journalists and filmmakers feel that negativity cells, despite a lot of evidence to the contrary. I don't really get it. The evidence would suggest that positivity sells too - have you noticed how successful DISNEY is? How about Star Wars? Funny romantic comedies on TV and Movies? The ultimate example? Hallmark movies. Right here in TV we have the Daily Sun (the only paper I will ever read) that is very positive. The guy who made this movie is trying to get famous, and he felt it had to be negative to get the attention. Well look, he accomplished his task.

See, this is what happens when you live in a bubble. You become completely ignorant to anything outside it.

Lance Oppenheim was already famous before he produced this documentary.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The person writing this ”documentary” must be a competitor of TV. My uncle has lived here from 1990’s and my parents from the late 1990’s on. While there may be a very small segment of TV population that participates in these type of events it has never came to my uncle’s family or my parents’ attention in 30 years.

Total rubbish! In my opinion.

Another person who surrounds herself with a bubble and rejects the reality beyond it.

The "person writing this "documentary"" is a 20-something year old kid whose name is known already, as a producer of documentaries. Award-winning stuff from Sundance Film Festival and what not. He writes about PEOPLE in situations.

Sad people living in a happy place is an interesting story.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The point of the movie is that you will take your problems with you even if you live in a “Utopian Society”. Moving to The Villages will not magically cure your chronic depression or fears. It will not erase guilt complexes, PTSD and a myriad of psychological neuroses and problems. That is why the director went out of his way to find people who came here thinking that living in TV would cure their personal issues and they would be wondrously happy. Of course they are not typical of most of those who live here.

While I disagree with the headline you quoted I found that most of what the Daily Mail said to be true. The Villages is as fake as a two dollar bill. And the “Stepford Wives'' reference is not too far off the mark. The cookie-cutter houses with the imitation town squares remind me of a “Twilight Zone” episode in which a couple wakes up in a picture perfect town only to find it is all fake and they are living in a giant alien’s terrarium. TV is a place designed to insulate its residents from the harsh realities that exist in the world today. It is a gated & exclusive community for middle class white conservatives.

I am not anti-TV. The Villages is great for making new friends of like minds and ages. No noisy children or delinquent teenagers. Pristine surroundings. Absence of street crime. Every type of club for every interest. Activities geared for the 55+ age group. Nightly entertainment. The list goes on and on. It is a perfect place to live if you are not a born loner as I am. I was into social distancing long before it became de rigueur. My wife insisted we buy here and she loves everything about The Villages as does everyone we have met.

Go on and enjoy the movie. Don’t be so uptight that you cannot laugh at yourself and try not to miss the real message.

This nails it, other than this single sentence: "It is a gated & exclusive community for middle class white conservatives."

There's a very real distinction between "a gated community" and "a community with gates." It's not semantics. The Villages is not a gated community. It's also not exclusive, you don't have to apply for residency, there is no committee that approves or rejects your decision to buy and live here. You don't have to be middle class: we are very solidly lower-class, though we were definitely middle-class up until the year before we had to leave our home up north. We're now officially within "poverty" level, and find the Villages to be completely affordable. You also don't have to be conservative, or white. We're white, but we welcome diversity and would love to see more color in the neighborhood. And we're both moderates, neither conservative nor liberal. I've met liberal folks who live here, and a few further left than I'm comfortable with, in fact.

[Packer Fan]

See, this is what happens when you live in a bubble. You become completely ignorant to anything outside it.

Lance Oppenheim was already famous before he produced this documentary.

:blahblahblah::blahblahblah:Thank you for the personal insult. Not sure why you felt it to be necessary. Just one correction, although I have 2 rental homes in TV, I live in Milwaukee, at least for the next few years until I retire in TV, which I can't wait to do.
I guess your ignorance is showing.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

:blahblahblah::blahblahblah:Thank you for the personal insult. Not sure why you felt it to be necessary. Just one correction, although I have 2 rental homes in TV, I live in Milwaukee, at least for the next few years until I retire in TV, which I can't wait to do.
I guess your ignorance is showing.

So you don't understand what the phrase "living in a bubble" means. Okay. And you don't understand that by your own words, that the Daily Sun is the "only paper" you ever read because it only prints positive things...is indicative of someone who lives in a bubble. Okay.

And you don't understand that the phrase "ignorant to [topic]" is not an insult. It means you choose not to know about a thing. I didn't say you are an ignorant person. That's what I would have said, if I wanted to insult you.

Keep on enjoying the bubble of your own creation. I choose to keep my knowledge a little more broad. Even if it means acknowledging that there are things in this world that aren't so positive. In fact - especially acknowledging it. That way I don't need someone telling me how awesome my life must be, because of the place I happen to reside. I can figure it out for myself, by looking at the rest of the world (instead of being instructed to accept what other people tell me).