Symbols/Significance

Rating: 9/10 (23 January 2007)

I thought it was one of the best films I have seen in a while. I just wanted to open up a small discussion on the symbolism of names in the film. The most obvious example of this would be Theo the main character. Also I was interested in the strange mystic who helps them in the refugee town called Marichka. Last semester I read the Ramayana by Valmiki for the first time, and the main villain's (Ravana) brother was called Maricha. He disguises himself as a golden dear to precipitate the capture of Rama's wife Sita. I was wondering if anyone had any ideas about these and other loaded names in the movie. Also, language aside, symbolism in general throughout the film. Like how Theo is reduced to wearing flip flops at one point, exposing his feet to injury and infection. I thought for sure that the flip flops would go and he would spend the rest of the movie barefoot. I suppose that was too blatant for the director, and he eventually finds sneakers I believe. Anyway, very well put together. Only point of contention might be better score/soundtrack. It just didn't really serve to create emotion or a spartan wasteland (either one I would have accepted). Anyway, good flick.