For this discussion you should view the film Away from her (Egoyan et al., 2006)
HUM 1050 – Introduction to Literature
Unit 4 Discussion (9/25-10/1) Evaluating Film
For this discussion you should view the film Away from her (Egoyan et al., 2006). This week we will use the Munro short story “The bear came over the mountain? (2013) as the criteria against which to evaluate the film Away from her (Egoyan et al., 2006). You will be making a judgment based on the evidence from the story and the film to evaluate how well the film depicts the story and how well the story and the film depict Alzheimer’s.
- Do you think the film accurately depicts the characters in the short story?
- Do you think that the film justifies the themes of the story?
- Does the film accurately depict Alzheimer’s?
- Does the film present as overly sentimental?
- Do you prefer the film or the short story?
You should DO THREE SEPARATE POSTS ON THIS CONTENT ACTIVITY
References
Egoyan, A. Hirst, V., Iron, D. Mankoff, D. Urdl, S. Weiss, J. (Producers), & Polley, S. (Director). (2006).
Away from her. [Motion picture]. Canada: Foundry Film
Munro, A. (2013, Oct 21). The bear came over the mountain. The New Yorker.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/10/21/the-bear-came-over-the-mountain-2
All citations from the film should be: (Egoyan et al., 2006).
Add timestamp number to citations with direct quotes from the film.
Add a para. number to citations with direct quotes from the story.
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FAQs
The Bear Came Over the Mountain Summary
“The Bear Came Over the Mountain” is a short story written by Canadian author Alice Munro, and it was later adapted into a film titled “Away from Her.” The story revolves around the themes of memory, aging, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Here is a summary of the story:
The story begins with the protagonist, Grant, reflecting on his marriage to Fiona. They have been married for several decades, and while they have had their share of challenges, their love has endured. However, Fiona’s memory has been deteriorating, and she is showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
As Fiona’s condition worsens, Grant realizes that he can no longer provide the care and support she needs at home. He decides to admit her to a nursing home called Meadowlake, where she will receive proper care and attention. This decision is heartbreaking for both of them, as they have never been apart for an extended period.
Meadowlake has a policy that does not allow family members to visit during the first month of admission. Grant reluctantly agrees to this rule and tries to come to terms with the separation. During this time, he reflects on his past infidelity and the guilt he feels about it.
When the month is over, Grant visits Fiona at Meadowlake. To his surprise, she seems to have formed a deep connection with another resident, a man named Aubrey. Fiona’s memory is such that she often forgets who Grant is, but she remembers Aubrey. This discovery deeply affects Grant, and he begins to question his own feelings of jealousy and insecurity.
Over time, Fiona’s attachment to Aubrey becomes more evident, and Grant realizes that her connection with Aubrey is helping her cope with her illness. He grapples with his emotions, feeling both sadness and a sense of relief that Fiona has found companionship.
The story explores the complexities of love and the challenges of aging and memory loss. It raises questions about the nature of fidelity and the enduring bonds between individuals. In the end, Grant comes to accept Fiona’s connection with Aubrey and visits her regularly at Meadowlake, knowing that their love, while changed, continues to exist in its own unique way.
Alice Munro’s “The Bear Came Over the Mountain” is a poignant exploration of the human condition, offering a sensitive portrayal of the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on a long-term relationship and the unexpected ways in which love can manifest in the face of adversity.
The bear came over the mountain characters
“The Bear Came Over the Mountain” is a short story written by Alice Munro. It features several characters who play significant roles in the narrative. Here are the main characters:
- Grant: Grant is the central character and the protagonist of the story. He is an aging man who has been married to Fiona for many decades. He is deeply committed to his wife and grapples with the difficult decision to admit her to a nursing home as her Alzheimer’s disease progresses. Grant is a complex character who reflects on his past infidelity and wrestles with his feelings of jealousy and guilt as Fiona forms a connection with another resident at the nursing home.
- Fiona: Fiona is Grant’s wife and the focus of the story. She is a woman who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, which causes her memory to deteriorate. Despite her illness, Fiona remains a central figure in the narrative as her past and present actions and emotions are explored. Her attachment to Aubrey, another resident at the nursing home, becomes a significant aspect of the story.
- Aubrey: Aubrey is a resident at the Meadowlake nursing home where Fiona is admitted. He is a man who, like Fiona, is dealing with the effects of dementia. Fiona forms a deep and seemingly romantic connection with Aubrey, which both surprises and confounds Grant. Aubrey’s presence in Fiona’s life becomes a source of both tension and reflection for Grant.
These three characters are the primary focus of “The Bear Came Over the Mountain.” The story revolves around their complex emotions, relationships, and the challenges they face as they confront the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on their lives. Other minor characters, such as nursing home staff and fellow residents, appear in the story to provide context and support the narrative, but Grant, Fiona, and Aubrey are the central figures driving the plot and themes of the story.
What Is the Irony of the Story the Bear Came Over the Mountain?
The irony in Alice Munro’s short story “The Bear Came Over the Mountain” lies in the unexpected and complex emotions and relationships that develop as a result of the characters’ actions and circumstances. The story presents several layers of irony:
- Irony of Love and Memory: The central irony of the story is that Fiona, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and is losing her memory, forms a deep emotional connection with another resident, Aubrey, at the Meadowlake nursing home. This is ironic because Fiona often forgets her own husband, Grant, but she remembers and bonds with Aubrey. The irony lies in the fact that, despite the devastation of her memory loss, Fiona is still capable of forming new emotional connections, even though they are transient.
- Irony of Grant’s Emotions: Grant, the protagonist, experiences a complex mix of emotions as he grapples with his wife’s attachment to Aubrey. Initially, he feels jealousy and insecurity, which is ironic given that he had been unfaithful to Fiona in the past. This irony highlights the complexity of human emotions and the unpredictability of how individuals respond to challenging situations.
- Irony of Grant’s Decision: Grant’s decision to admit Fiona to the nursing home, Meadowlake, is driven by his desire to ensure her well-being and proper care. However, he is initially unaware of the nursing home’s policy that prohibits family visits during the first month of admission. The irony here is that Grant’s well-intentioned decision to provide the best care for his wife inadvertently results in a month of separation, during which Fiona forms her connection with Aubrey.
- Irony of Acceptance: As the story progresses, Grant eventually comes to accept Fiona’s attachment to Aubrey. This acceptance is ironic because it contradicts his initial feelings of jealousy and insecurity. Grant realizes that Fiona’s relationship with Aubrey is helping her cope with her illness and provides her with a sense of comfort and companionship.
Overall, the story’s irony underscores the complexities of human emotions and the unpredictability of how individuals respond to challenging and emotionally charged situations. It highlights the paradoxes and unexpected twists that can occur in relationships, especially when dealing with issues like memory loss and aging.
What Happens at the End of the Bear Came Over the Mountain?
At the end of Alice Munro’s short story “The Bear Came Over the Mountain,” the narrative closes with a poignant and bittersweet resolution. After the events and emotional turmoil that transpire throughout the story, the ending reveals Grant’s acceptance of his wife Fiona’s attachment to another resident named Aubrey at the Meadowlake nursing home.
In the final scenes, Grant visits Fiona at Meadowlake, and he observes that Fiona’s bond with Aubrey has deepened. She appears to be content and happy in her connection with him, even though she often forgets Grant and her own history with him due to her Alzheimer’s disease.
The story ends with Grant’s realization that Fiona’s relationship with Aubrey has become a source of comfort and companionship for her, helping her navigate the challenges of her illness. Grant accepts this new reality and begins to visit Fiona regularly at Meadowlake, recognizing that their love, though changed and evolving, still exists in its own unique way.
The ending is bittersweet as it conveys both the sadness of Fiona’s memory loss and the complexities of their evolving relationship, while also highlighting the enduring nature of love and the ability to find connection and solace in unexpected places. It’s a conclusion that captures the complexities of human emotions and relationships in the face of Alzheimer’s disease and aging.
What Is the Movie Away from Her About?
“Away from Her” is a 2006 Canadian drama film directed by Sarah Polley. The film is based on the short story “The Bear Came Over the Mountain” by Alice Munro. The story and the film explore the themes of aging, memory loss, love, and the challenges of maintaining relationships in the face of Alzheimer’s disease.
The movie revolves around the following key elements:
- Marriage and Love: The film primarily focuses on the long and enduring marriage of Fiona and Grant, played by Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent, respectively. They have been married for decades, and their love for each other is deep and profound. However, their relationship is tested when Fiona begins to show signs of Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects her memory and cognitive abilities.
- Alzheimer’s Disease: The central theme of the film is the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on Fiona’s life and her relationship with Grant. As Fiona’s condition deteriorates, she decides to check herself into a nursing home called Meadowlake to receive proper care and support. This decision is heartbreaking for both Fiona and Grant, as they face the prospect of being separated for the first time in their marriage.
- Memory Loss and Transformation: “Away from Her” explores the heartbreaking effects of memory loss on Fiona’s character. She gradually forgets the details of her life, including her relationship with Grant. The film shows how Fiona’s personality undergoes changes, and she forms a deep emotional connection with another resident at the nursing home, Aubrey.
- Complex Relationships: The movie delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. Grant grapples with his feelings of helplessness and jealousy as he witnesses Fiona’s attachment to Aubrey, even though she often forgets Grant’s identity. The film portrays the emotional struggles and challenges faced by Grant as he navigates this new reality.
- Acceptance and Love: Ultimately, “Away from Her” is a story of acceptance, love, and the enduring nature of human connections. Grant comes to terms with Fiona’s evolving relationship with Aubrey and visits her regularly at the nursing home. The film highlights the depth of their love and the idea that love can endure even in the face of profound changes and challenges.
In summary, “Away from Her” is a touching and emotionally charged film that explores the themes of love, memory loss, and the complexities of relationships in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. It offers a poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of the impact of the condition on both the individual suffering from it and their loved ones.
What Happened at the End of the Movie Away from Her?
At the end of the movie “Away from Her,” the story concludes with a powerful and emotionally charged resolution. The film’s ending brings together the central themes of love, memory loss, and acceptance.
In the final scenes:
- Fiona’s Condition: Fiona’s Alzheimer’s disease has progressed significantly throughout the film. She now resides at the Meadowlake nursing home and has developed a deep emotional connection with another resident, Aubrey. Her memory loss has become severe, and she often forgets her own husband, Grant.
- Grant’s Acceptance: Grant, Fiona’s husband, initially struggled with his feelings of jealousy and helplessness as he watched Fiona’s attachment to Aubrey. However, over time, he comes to accept this new reality. He realizes that Fiona’s relationship with Aubrey provides her with a sense of comfort and happiness, even if it means she no longer remembers him.
- Closure: The film’s emotional climax occurs when Grant visits Fiona at Meadowlake. In a poignant and heart-wrenching moment, Fiona mistakes Grant for Aubrey, demonstrating the extent of her memory loss. Despite this painful realization, Grant holds Fiona’s hand and comforts her, showing his enduring love for her.
- Credits: The movie concludes with the credits, leaving viewers with a sense of the challenges and complexities faced by individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and the powerful emotions experienced by their loved ones.
The ending of “Away from Her” is both heartbreaking and hopeful. It highlights the depth of love and the ability to find connection and solace in unexpected ways, even in the face of profound memory loss. The film’s conclusion underscores the themes of acceptance and the enduring nature of human relationships, leaving audiences with a lasting emotional impact.
Is Away From Her Based on a True Story?
“Away from Her,” the 2006 Canadian drama film directed by Sarah Polley, is not directly based on a true story or a specific real-life individual. However, it is adapted from a short story titled “The Bear Came Over the Mountain” written by acclaimed Canadian author Alice Munro. Munro’s story explores themes of aging, memory loss, and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on a long-term relationship, drawing inspiration from the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
While the film is not a true story or a biographical account, it does reflect the real-life experiences of individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease. “Away from Her” offers a sensitive and thought-provoking portrayal of the challenges and emotional struggles faced by those affected by the condition, both individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. The story and the film aim to capture the universal themes of love, memory, and acceptance in the context of this devastating neurological disorder.
7 Themes of Movies
Exploring the 7 Themes of Movies
Movies have been an integral part of our lives for over a century. They entertain us, make us cry, laugh, and even ponder over life’s profound questions. From the silent black-and-white classics to the cutting-edge CGI-laden blockbusters, the world of cinema has evolved in numerous ways. In this article, we, as dedicated movie enthusiasts and SEO experts, delve deep into the seven prominent themes that have made films not only captivating but also thought-provoking.
1. Love and Romance
Love is arguably the most enduring theme in the history of cinema. From epic tales of star-crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet to modern-day romantic comedies, this theme has consistently captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. It’s not just about the chemistry between the protagonists, but also the emotions, challenges, and sacrifices that love entails. Whether it’s a passionate affair in the roaring ’20s or a futuristic love story set in space, love remains universal and timeless.
2. Hero’s Journey
The hero’s journey is a narrative pattern that transcends cultures and eras. Movies often revolve around a protagonist who embarks on a transformative quest, facing obstacles and adversities to ultimately emerge victorious or changed. This theme taps into the human desire for growth, adventure, and self-discovery. Iconic films like “The Lord of the Rings” and “Star Wars” epitomize the hero’s journey, taking us on epic adventures through mythical realms.
3. Good vs. Evil
Good vs. Evil is a theme that has captivated audiences for generations. It explores the age-old struggle between morality and malevolence. Heroes rise to confront menacing villains, and the battle between light and darkness ensues. This theme offers a moral compass, inspiring us to stand up against injustice and champion righteousness. Classic examples include “The Dark Knight” and “The Shawshank Redemption.”
4. Coming of Age
The coming-of-age theme resonates with everyone who has experienced the tumultuous transition from youth to adulthood. It explores the challenges, self-discovery, and growth that young individuals undergo. Whether it’s a teenager navigating high school in “The Breakfast Club” or a young wizard discovering his destiny in “Harry Potter,” this theme connects with our own journeys of self-realization.
5. Science Fiction and Fantasy
Science fiction and fantasy take us to realms beyond our imagination. They push the boundaries of what’s possible, allowing us to explore futuristic technologies, alternate dimensions, and mythical creatures. Movies like “Blade Runner” and “The Lord of the Rings” offer us a glimpse into the extraordinary and the otherworldly, stimulating our creativity and curiosity.
6. War and Conflict
War and conflict have been a recurring theme in cinema, reflecting the harsh realities of human history. These films explore the horrors of war, the bravery of soldiers, and the impact of conflict on individuals and societies. Movies such as “Saving Private Ryan” and “Apocalypse Now” transport us to the battlegrounds, reminding us of the sacrifices made for freedom and peace.
7. Mystery and Thriller
Mystery and thriller films keep us on the edge of our seats, as we follow intricate plots, solve puzzles, and unravel secrets. They tap into our innate curiosity and love for suspense. From the classic whodunit mysteries like “Murder on the Orient Express” to modern psychological thrillers like “Inception,” this theme challenges our intellect and emotions.
In conclusion, movies are a powerful medium for storytelling, and these seven themes are the pillars upon which countless cinematic masterpieces are built. Whether you seek heartwarming romance, epic adventures, moral dilemmas, personal growth, fantastical worlds, historical insights, or spine-tingling suspense, the world of cinema has something to offer everyone. So, the next time you sit down to watch a movie, take a moment to appreciate the underlying theme that makes it a unique and unforgettable experience.
How Do You Find the Theme of a Movie?
Finding the theme of a movie involves analyzing various elements of the film to identify the central message or underlying idea that the filmmakers are trying to convey. Here are some steps to help you find the theme of a movie:
- Watch the Movie Carefully: The first step is to watch the movie attentively. Pay close attention to the characters, dialogue, plot developments, and recurring motifs or symbols.
- Identify Key Elements:
- Characters: Look at the main characters and their arcs. How do they change or grow throughout the film? What do their actions and decisions reveal about the film’s message?
- Dialogue: Listen to what the characters say. Sometimes, the theme is directly stated in the dialogue.
- Plot: Consider the events that unfold in the story. Are there specific conflicts or challenges that the characters face that reflect deeper ideas?
- Symbols and Motifs: Take note of any recurring symbols or motifs in the film. These can often provide clues to the theme.
- Consider Genre and Tone: The genre and tone of the movie can provide hints about its theme. For example, a romantic comedy is likely to explore themes related to love and relationships, while a dark thriller may delve into themes of suspense or moral ambiguity.
- Examine Character Relationships: Pay attention to the relationships between characters. How characters interact with each other can reveal themes related to family, friendship, love, or conflict.
- Look for Message or Lesson: Think about what the filmmakers might want the audience to take away from the movie. Is there a moral lesson or message that becomes clear as the story progresses?
- Consider the Setting and Time Period: The setting and time period in which the movie takes place can also contribute to the theme. Historical context, cultural elements, and social issues can all influence the central message.
- Read Reviews and Analyses: After watching the movie, you can read reviews or analyses by film critics and scholars. They often provide insights into the themes explored in the film.
- Discuss and Reflect: Engage in discussions with others who have seen the movie. Sometimes, different perspectives can lead to a deeper understanding of the theme.
- Reflect on Your Emotional Response: Consider how the movie made you feel. Did it evoke strong emotions or provoke thought? Your emotional response can offer clues about the themes that resonated with you.
- Summarize the Theme: Once you’ve gathered information and reflected on the movie, try to summarize the theme in a sentence or two. What is the central idea or message that the movie conveys?
Remember that movies can have multiple themes, and the interpretation of those themes can vary from person to person. Finding the theme of a movie often involves a combination of careful observation, analysis, and personal interpretation.
Types of Characters in a Movie
In movies, characters play a crucial role in driving the story and engaging the audience. There are various types of characters that filmmakers use to create depth, conflict, and emotional connection in a film. Here are some common types of characters you may encounter in movies:
- Protagonist:
- The central character in the story.
- Often the hero or main character whom the audience follows and roots for.
- Typically faces challenges, obstacles, and conflicts that they must overcome.
- Antagonist:
- The character or force that opposes the protagonist.
- Often the villain or primary source of conflict in the story.
- Their actions and goals are in direct opposition to those of the protagonist.
- Supporting Characters:
- Characters who play significant roles in the story but are not the central focus.
- They may provide guidance, comic relief, or important information to the protagonist.
- Supporting characters can have their own arcs and development.
- Foil Characters:
- Characters who contrast with the protagonist in terms of personality, values, or actions.
- Foils are used to highlight the qualities and characteristics of the main character.
- They often serve as a source of conflict or reflection.
- Love Interest:
- A character who forms a romantic or emotional connection with the protagonist.
- The love interest can be a central part of the plot or a subplot.
- Their relationship often drives character development and adds emotional depth to the story.
- Mentor:
- An experienced and wise character who guides, teaches, or advises the protagonist.
- Mentors play a crucial role in the hero’s journey and help the protagonist grow and overcome challenges.
- Sidekick:
- A loyal and supportive companion to the protagonist.
- Sidekicks often provide comic relief, assistance in action sequences, or emotional support.
- They can also help convey information to the audience.
- Comic Relief:
- Characters whose primary purpose is to provide humor and lighten the mood.
- They often have quirky personalities or engage in comedic situations.
- Comic relief characters offer a break from tension in the story.
- Villain Henchmen:
- Subordinate characters who serve the main antagonist.
- They carry out the antagonist’s orders and engage in confrontations with the protagonist.
- Henchmen add to the overall threat and danger in the story.
- Stock Characters:
- Archetypal or stereotypical characters that are instantly recognizable.
- Examples include the wise old sage, the damsel in distress, and the bumbling sidekick.
- Stock characters are often used for specific narrative purposes.
- Antihero:
- A protagonist who lacks traditional heroic qualities.
- Antiheroes may have morally ambiguous or flawed traits.
- Their actions and motivations may not align with conventional heroism.
- Dynamic and Static Characters:
- Dynamic characters undergo significant change and growth throughout the story.
- Static characters, on the other hand, remain relatively unchanged in terms of personality and beliefs.
These are just some of the many character types that filmmakers use to create engaging and diverse stories in movies. The combination of these characters and their interactions forms the backbone of storytelling in cinema, allowing for rich and complex narratives.
