Tag Archives: Shadow play

Shadow Play(Now in Color!) : 1984 and Brazil

While calling 1984 Noir may be debatable, it’s obvious that the novel highly influenced the 1985 film, Brazil. In fact, it was almost named 1984 and a 1/2, according to Terry Gilliam. Set in ‘somewhere in the 20th century’ Brazil follows the life of Sam Lowry. While 1984 is set in a dystopian future, Brazil is technically set in the present. Aspects of 1984 can be found throughout the movie. An example are the screens found in almost every room. In 1984, the public is always under the watchful eye of telescreens. In Brazil, the public is always staring at one screen or another. In addition, the controlling power in Brazil is the ministry of information. This is similar to ministries found in 1984: The Ministry of Truth , The Ministry of Peace , The  Ministry of Love, and The Ministry of Plenty. Another example of the similarities between the two works is the separation of classes. In 1984, Winston Smith has hope in the proles, which are a step below his class. In Brazil, Sam Lowry leaves the automated, glistening portion of  his city to give a check to the impoverished Mrs. Buttle. Mrs. Buttle’s portion of the similar doesn’t look too far from modern day, reinforcing the belief that ‘Brazil’ could happen anytime soon.

Shadow Play: Double Indemnity

During our last class we viewed the film Double Indemnity, based on the book of the same name. Though there are several differences between the book and the film, the key characters are basically the same. We have two character types that appear in Noir film, the femme fatale, Phyllis and the not so good protagonist, Huff.The film had its share of controversy, taking 8 years before getting made. The main themes of the novel/film include infidelity, murder, and suspense.

Neff/Huff is a insurance salesman that goes door to door. The trouble begins when Neff/Huff meets Phyllis. In the movie she appears slightly under-dressed. In the novel she is in pajamas. Either way, from his narrations it is clear he has more than her husbands auto insurance on his mind. Soon, he is accusing Phyllis. Neff uses the situation to enact his wish of getting over on his insurance company. However, it is clear that he is merely a puppet in Phyllis’ plan. As we learn from her step daughter Lola, Phyllis most likely murdered Lola’s mother.