Evolutionary Regression in Gravity

A lot has been said about the excitement, realism, and beauty of Alfonso Cuaron's Gravity. Most will agree that it is a fun experience but I must disagree with some critics such as David Denby from The New Yorker who claim that, though good, it is "not a film of ideas, like Kubrick's techno-mystical 2001." While the ideas of the film may take a back seat to the adventure, I believe there is an interesting commentary on humanity running throughout in the form of symbolism. 

SPOILER ALERT: This analysis covers major plot points of the film and should not be read before watching. 

The Master: A Love Song

The Master is a film rich with subext that some people have found difficult to understand. The premise of the film and media attention has sturred some to expect a commentary about new age religions but I don’t think that could be further from the truth. I’m sure there are many interpretations of the film, but this is the one that worked for me. 

The Master, I believe, is ultimately about dominant/subordinate relationships. Freddie Quell, unable to return to the love of his life, finds a rebound companion in Lancaster Dodd, and when he leaves it breaks Lancaster’s heart. It’s not a sexual relationship – though sex is a major component to the story. It’s much more interesting and complex than that. Which is why, perhaps, it is best told in a puzzle-like fashion. The clues into the subtext and meaning, however, aren’t hidden at all. In fact, you could say they’re right under our ears...