Modern Love at the Movies: Our Favorite Oscar-Worthy Love Stories
Dive into the artistic world of "Modern Love," where film critics like Alissa Wilkinson join Anna Martin and Ira Glass to deconstruct the fabric of romantic narratives in modern cinema. This compelling installment of the podcast examines the evolution of relationships in movies, moving from formulaic conventions to complex, and sometimes unconventional, tales of human connection. As they explore how current critically-acclaimed films are challenging and expanding audience perceptions of love and partnership, the conversation becomes a mirror reflecting the ever-changing landscape of societal norms and personal identities.
Witness a profound analysis of the cinematic journey from traditional love stories to the intricate tales that capture today's varied experiences of affection and self-discovery. The podcast delves into the independence of Bella Baxter in "Poor Things," the passionate turbulence within Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra's marriage in "Maestro," and the unconventional reconnection of Nora and Haesung in "Past Lives." "Modern Love" offers a discerning look at how relationships steer narratives and characters' actions in movies—demonstrating the power of film to both echo and shape the contemporary understanding of intimate bonds.
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1-Page Summary
Relationships as the Driver of Action in Movies
Relationships in movies, traditionally depicted through predictable and conventional dynamics, now give way to intricate portrayals that challenge the viewers' expectations. These nuanced relationships, ranging from self-discovery to non-traditional reconnections, drive the narrative of films and resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Film analysts like Alissa Wilkinson highlight critical shifts in relationship depiction and celebrate the evolution of these portrayals in critically-acclaimed films that step beyond heteronormative tropes.
Complex Relationships in Critically-Acclaimed Films
Critically-acclaimed movies are increasingly depicting complex relationships that defy traditional on-screen portrayals. These relationships often explore themes of self-discovery, questioning loyalty, and the rediscovery of connections that do not adhere to the normative standards of relationships.
The fantastical and liberating relationship of Bella Baxter and herself in Poor Things
In "Poor Things," Bella Baxter is a figure of self-discovery and independence. Created by Dr. Godwin Baxter, who views her simultaneously as a daughter and a scientific subject, Bella leaves behind her creator to embark on an uninhibited journey of exploration. This path sees her engaging with sex, alcohol, and the darker sides of human nature, yet without the burdens of guilt or societal judgement. With Duncan Wedderburn, Bella enters a relationship driven solely by her physical desires, using him as a mere instrument for her self-exploration rather than forming an emotional bond. Alissa Wilkinson recognizes the film's break from the usual restraints placed on female characters, with Bella thriving in a fantasy of absolute freedom.
The volatile yet loving real-life relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra in Maestro
The marriage of Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra in "Maestro" is depicted as a maelstrom of emotions, capturing the depths of their love and the challenges it faces. The film confronts issues like Bernstein's hidden homosexuality and its repercussions on the marriage, highlighting the pain and frustration it brings to both partners. A significant argument scene powerfully conveys their emotional turmoil, emphasizing the tension between their love for one another and the struggles arising from Bernstein’s personal conflicts and self-destructive behaviors.
The ambiguous connection between childhood friends Nora and Haesung in Past Lives
"Past Lives" presents an unconventional portrait of a relationship between Nora and Haesung, childhood friends who reconnect as adults through the internet and later in person, despite having their own committed partners. This reconnection avoids the expected romantic development, offering viewers a nuanced conversation filled with ambiguity and introspection. The film plays with the audience’s expectations by recognizing and then diverging from the anticipated narrative of rekindled childhood love. Furthermore, the movie's self-awareness is highlighted when a character humorously points out the typical role he would play in such a story, thereby commenting on the film's conscious decision to avoid common tropes.
The film advocates for the portrayal of realistic relationships shaped by modern forms of communication, prompting the audience to recognize and appreciate the myriad of relationship dynamics that exist both onscreen and in real life.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Heteronormative tropes are societal norms and expectations that assume heterosexuality as the default sexual orientation and standard for relationships. These tropes reinforce the idea that heterosexual relationships are the norm, often marginalizing or ignoring non-heterosexual identities and dynamics. They can limit the representation and recognition of diverse relationships beyond the traditional male-female dynamic in media and culture. Challenging heteronormative tropes involves exploring and portraying a wider range of relationships and identities to reflect the diversity of human experiences.
- Dr. Godwin Baxter is a character in the movie "Poor Things." He is the creator of Bella Baxter, a central figure in the film. Dr. Godwin Baxter plays a significant role in shaping Bella's narrative and journey of self-discovery.
- Duncan Wedderburn is a character in the film "Poor Things." He is involved in a relationship with Bella Baxter, the main character of the movie. In the context of the film, Duncan serves as a significant figure in Bella's journey of self-discovery and exploration.
- Leonard Bernstein, a renowned composer and conductor, was known for his musical genius. He was also known to have been homosexual, a fact that was not widely publicized during his lifetime due to societal attitudes towards LGBTQ individuals. Bernstein's personal life, including his struggles with his sexuality and how it impacted his relationships, has been a subject of interest and discussion among scholars and biographers.
- Realistic relationships shaped by modern forms of communication refer to how movies portray relationships influenced by contemporary methods of interacting, such as social media, texting, video calls, and online connections. These portrayals showcase how technology impacts how people communicate, connect, and maintain relationships in today's digital age. Films explore how these modern communication tools affect the dynamics, challenges, and intimacy within relationships on screen. This theme highlights the evolving nature of human connections in a world where technology plays a significant role in how people interact and relate to one another.
Counterarguments
- While the text celebrates the evolution of relationship portrayals in film, some may argue that traditional dynamics still have their place and can be just as resonant when well-executed.
- There is a perspective that not all critically-acclaimed films successfully depict complex relationships, and some may fall into their own set of predictable patterns or tropes.
- The depiction of Bella Baxter in "Poor Things" as a character free from societal judgment could be criticized for potentially glamorizing reckless behavior without addressing the consequences that often accompany such lifestyles.
- The portrayal of Leonard Bernstein's marriage in "Maestro" might be seen as focusing too heavily on the sensational aspects of their relationship, possibly overshadowing other important elements of their lives and contributions.
- "Past Lives" may be critiqued for its ambiguous connection between Nora and Haesung, with some viewers preferring more definitive resolutions or clearer character motivations.
- The advocacy for realistic relationships shaped by modern communication could be challenged by those who believe that films should offer an escape from reality rather than mirroring it too closely.
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Relationships as the Driver of Action in Movies
Alissa Wilkinson and other film analysts delve into how relationships drive the narratives in contemporary critically-acclaimed films, moving away from formulaic, heteronormative tropes and scenarios toward complex, self-reflective, and sometimes non-conventional dynamics.
Complex Relationships in Critically-Acclaimed Films
These films break from traditional relationship portrayals and instead weave stories of self-discovery, conflicting loyalties, and unorthodox reconnections.
The fantastical and liberating relationship of Bella Baxter and herself in Poor Things
"Poor Things" showcases the central theme of Bella developing independence and self-knowledge, distinguished by her lack of shame or preconceived notions of behavior. Bella is a creation of Dr. Godwin Baxter, who sees her both as a daughter and a fascinating science experiment. Realizing her freedom, Bella leaves Godwin, who, understanding he cannot contain her, encourages her to experience the world. Her journey of self-discovery is marked by learning about sex, alcohol, and cruelty without the burdens of guilt or societal punishment. Bella enjoys a physically motivated relationship with Duncan Wedderburn, played by Mark Ruffalo, which is driven by her desires and whims; she manipulates Duncan without genuine emotion, solely to further her self-exploration.
Wilkinson highlights the uniqueness of the portrayal of Bella, a woman acting on impulse without facing traditional cinematic restraints, and enjoying a fantasy of liberation that’s rarely depicted for female characters in film.
The volatile yet loving real-life relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra in Maestro
"Maestro" delves into the tumultuous yet loving relationship between Leonard Bernstein and his wife, Felicia Montalegra. The film explores the complexity of Bernstein's life, including his hidden attraction to men, and how this secret impacts their partnership and family. Tensions arise, not primarily due to his sexual orientation, but how Bernstein’s self-destructive tendencies and absences affect their life. One poignant scene features an intense argument, laying bare their inner truths and frustrations.
The ambiguous connection between childhood friends Nora and Haesung in Past Lives
"Past Lives" revolves around two childhood friend ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Relationships as the Driver of Action in Movies
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Heteronormative tropes are societal norms and expectations that assume heterosexuality as the default sexual orientation, often marginalizing or ignoring other sexual orientations. These tropes reinforce traditional gender roles and relationships, portraying heterosexual couples as the norm and ideal, while sidelining or stigmatizing non-heterosexual relationships. They can limit the representation of diverse sexual identities and reinforce stereotypes about gender and sexuality. Challenging heteronormative tropes involves exploring and depicting a wider range of relationships and identities beyond the traditional heterosexual framework.
- Dr. Godwin Baxter created Bella as a science experiment, viewing her as both a daughter and a fascinating creation. Bella's existence is marked by her unique journey of self-discovery and independence, free from societal constraints and expectations. She breaks away from Godwin's control to explore the world and her own desires, shaping her identity without traditional restraints. Bella's relationship with herself and others is driven by her own agency and curiosity, leading to unconventional dynamics and experiences.
- Bella and Duncan's relationship in "Poor Things" is characterized by Bella's manipulation of Duncan for her own self-exploration, devoid of genuine emotional connection. Bella's interactions with Duncan are driven by her desires and whims, as she navigates her journey of self-discovery without traditional constraints. Their relationship is portrayed as physically motivated and lacks the typical emotional depth seen in romantic connections in films. Bella's manipulation of Duncan reflects her pursuit of liberation and independence, showcasing a unique dynamic rarely depicted for female characters in cinema.
- Leonard Bernstein, a renowned composer and conductor, was known to have had attractions to both men and women. He struggled with his sexual orientation in a time wh ...
Counterarguments
- While relationships are a key driver in many films, some critically-acclaimed movies may focus more on individual character development, societal issues, or other themes that do not center around relationships.
- The complexity of relationships in film can sometimes overshadow other important elements of storytelling, such as plot, setting, or thematic exploration.
- The portrayal of Bella Baxter in "Poor Things" as a woman acting on impulse without facing traditional cinematic restraints could be criticized for potentially reinforcing the trope of the "manic pixie dream girl" who exists solely for the purpose of self-discovery and does not face realistic consequences for her actions.
- The depiction of Bella's manipulation of Duncan could be seen as a negative portrayal of female agency, suggesting that empowerment comes at the expense of others.
- "Maestro" might be critiqued for focusing on Bernstein's self-destructive tendencies and absences, which could be interpreted as a perpetuation of the troubled genius stereotype, potentially overshadowing other aspects of his character or contributions.
- The film "Past Lives" may be criticized for its avoidance of the typical narrati ...
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