Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Road to Love...
The main objective of this film is to portray the identity issues that are not only faced my Middle Easterners, but by everyone. We clearly see that the main character, Karim is unsure as to sexuality. He begins a documentary/study that he claims is to just broaden his views in sociology, but we realize that his unconscious is leading the study. Karim is interested in knowing more about the aspects of homosexuality. He’s curious as to the background of it and its role in his culture. Karim doesn’t intend to leave his “girlfriend” for his lover, Farid. He doesn’t start the study as an excuse to “come out”. His unconscious mind reveals his underlying identity. The fact that the main language spoken was French alludes to sexuality discovery as a universal thing. This movie was an amazing choice by the Arab group. It shows that problems faced by many Americans are also faced by Middle Easterners. This movie is a great way to show the similarity between the American and Arabic society. Even issues such as sex before marriage were addressed in the film. Although I was a huge fan of the film, I did have a few points of dislike. One thing that I wasn’t a fan of was the impression of “associating with homosexuals makes you become homosexual”. I do not believe that fact what so ever and I’m not saying whatsoever that the movie was alluding to this; however it might be taken out of context and interpreted this way. I never realized how far back homosexuality in the Middle East was dated. Another thing that surprised me was the fact that sex between men was permitted before marriage in the past while sex with women before marriage was frowned upon. Without viewing this movie, things pertaining to homosexuality in the Middle East would have never crossed my mind. Again, great job and courage to Andrew and the rest of the Arab group for presenting a touchy yet informing subject.
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Chelsea I greatly appreciate your positive views on the subject that I know is very touchy and controversial, I too learned a lot about the parallels between the two cultures. I also appreciate the literature you stumbled upon and I purchased it. Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteAndrew