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...

Stigmata and Religious Symbolism in "Home Alone"

            Religious symbolism in secular Christmas films is nothing new. The holiday itself is a nice mixture of non-religious traditions with varying degrees of Christian undertones. So you’re making a movie about Christmas and you want to throw in a Church or a cross somewhere – no big deal - but to specifically use the graphic symbolism of the wounds of crucifixion in a classic family comedy was a bold – and often missed – choice by director Chris Columbus in the 1990 film, “Home Alone.”

Not sure what I’m referring to? Hit “read more” for evidence and analysis that I am shocked to be (as far as my google searching has shown) the first to discuss online...