Determination, Overcoming Hurdles, and Perseverance: A Comparative Analysis of "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Snowpiercer"
Analyze two texts (novels, films, television shows, song lyrics, and so on)
Text Pairing Suggestion:
Johnathan Dayton and Valerie Faris’ Little Miss Sunshine and Joon-Ho Bong’s Snowpiercer and the idea of determination, overcoming hurdles, and perseverance.
write a paper presenting an idea found in the texts and exploring possible meanings.
You will complete the project in two stages.
Part 1: you will produce a 2 to 3-page draft as described above. This draft should be the very best work you can accomplish. You may use the tutoring lab and librarians for help.
Part 2: you will be adding other voices to the discussion through the peer review:
• You’ll be talking with others in class; and
• In addition, you might wish to conduct some additional research to find out what scholars in the field have said about your discovered idea.
Title: Determination, Overcoming Hurdles, and Perseverance: A Comparative Analysis of "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Snowpiercer"
Introduction:
The themes of determination, overcoming hurdles, and perseverance are prevalent in various forms of artistic expression, including films. This paper aims to analyze two films, "Little Miss Sunshine" directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, and "Snowpiercer" directed by Joon-Ho Bong, in relation to these themes. By exploring the characters' journeys, the obstacles they face, and their unwavering determination, we can uncover deeper meanings and messages embedded in the narratives.
Body:
1. "Little Miss Sunshine":
In "Little Miss Sunshine," the Hoover family embarks on a road trip to support their young daughter, Olive, in her quest to participate in a beauty pageant. Each family member faces personal challenges that test their determination and resilience. Olive, despite not fitting societal beauty standards, remains determined to pursue her dream and compete in the pageant. Her unwavering perseverance symbolizes the triumph of personal aspirations over societal expectations.
Additionally, each family member faces their own hurdles throughout the journey. Richard, the father, is struggling with his failed self-help business. Frank, the uncle, battles with depression and self-doubt. Dwayne, the son, dreams of becoming a pilot but is unable to pursue it due to color blindness. Sheryl, the mother, strives to hold the family together amidst financial struggles. By coming together as a unit and supporting one another, the Hoovers demonstrate that determination and perseverance can help overcome individual obstacles.
2. "Snowpiercer":
In "Snowpiercer," the story takes place on a perpetually moving train carrying the last remnants of humanity after a global disaster. The lower-class passengers at the back of the train revolt against the oppressive ruling class in a relentless pursuit of freedom and equality. The main protagonist, Curtis Everett, leads the revolt while facing numerous physical and psychological challenges.
The train itself becomes a metaphorical representation of societal hierarchies and the hurdles faced by marginalized communities. As Curtis progresses through each section of the train, he confronts various obstacles that test his determination and perseverance. Through his unwavering resolve to reach the front of the train and challenge the oppressive system, Curtis embodies the relentless pursuit of justice and equality.
Possible Meanings:
The themes of determination, overcoming hurdles, and perseverance explored in these films convey broader meanings related to societal issues and personal growth. They highlight the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity and emphasize the importance of unity and support from loved ones.
These films also shed light on the human capacity for transformation and the power of individual agency. Despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, the characters in both films refuse to succumb to despair and instead find strength in their determination to achieve their goals.
Furthermore, these narratives serve as social commentaries on systemic injustices and inequalities present in society. By portraying characters who challenge oppressive systems and fight for justice, both films encourage audiences to question societal norms and advocate for change.
Conclusion:
The films "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Snowpiercer" explore the themes of determination, overcoming hurdles, and perseverance through compelling narratives. Through their characters' journeys, these films offer deeper meanings related to personal growth, resilience in adversity, unity within families, societal change, and the pursuit of justice. By examining these themes within the context of these films, we gain insights into the human spirit's capacity for transformation and the power of unwavering determination in overcoming obstacles.