Russell Brand: A five minute free write

The #freewrite prompt for March 20, 2018 was brand. My first thought was about branding, as in the marketing concept, but that was a dead end. I guess I am clueless about marketing myself. Then I thought of Russell Brand. I was in a seminar yesterday for my day job, and the subject matter (laws and regulations) was very dry with a few interesting stories told by the instructor to mix it up. I did my freewrite longhand during one especially dry section. I have transcribed it here, and edited it slightly.

Is Russell Brand a megalomaniac or messiah? I knew Brand as a comedian, actor, and Dr. Nefario’s voice from “Despicable Me.” While watching his comedy special “Russel Brand: Messiah Complex” I expected him to aggrandize himself and prove that he was both. By the end, however, I was thoroughly impressed with the depth and intellectual nature of his comedy. He made me think, and changed my mind about a few things. Since then, I have found that Brand is also a radio and podcast host who uses his platform for social activism. He draws attention to financial inequality, drug addiction, corporatism, and media bias among other topics. His podcast has been enlightening, and whatever else Russel Brand is, he is also a teacher. Namaste.