This movie is my new obsession.
Apparently Suckerpunch has been viewed as a film lacking a feminist approach. But I disagree. There is a sense of strength and female empowerment throughout the entire film, some sexual, some physical and some emotional – they are basically in a helpless and seemingly hopeless situation, yet each female character has individual resolve, especially Baby Doll, played by Emily Browning.
Her mind becomes the mechanism she needs to cope with the situations she finds herself in, an aspect of strength in itself. And each layer of the narrative is amplified, the action scenes beautifully visual and complex, every element has a metaphorical connection to the reality of the scenes taking place. This was a wise and strong move by Snyder, as it gives the viewer a much better understanding and perspective of what is involved to overcome the true monsters.
The sexuality of the film have two distinct roles – to show control and to show strength. Each female character identifies the power they have with this aspect of their lives and use it as a driving force to their ultimate goal of escape. Although more of a psychological element, this aspect conveys self awareness. And the fact that the female characters are never shown in garments the mental institution would allow them to wear, instead in the burlesque attire, beautiful hair and makeup gives you the distinct impression that they are strong and in control.
There are so many pieces of this puzzle which makes Suckerpunch a distinctly powerful and intellectual film, taking a story with a fundamentally simple plot into a beautifully woven, intricate film that stimulates every sense and takes the viewer to a whole new level of understanding
Copyright Rhayven Jane 2011
Rhayven Jane
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