This week Nathaniel selected one of my favourite films for "Hit me with your best shot" - The Color Purple. This melodrama about the struggles of black women in the early 20th century is surely one of the most unique in his filmography. Its feminine qualities certainly separate it from his more predominantly male-centric films. What makes it even more special is that these female characters and their arcs are tremendously fascinating. From the defiant Sofia (Oprah Winfrey) all the way down to the demure Squeak (Rae Dawn Chong). The film improves almost exponentially as each new character is introduced. Arguably, the core relationship in this film is that between Celie (Whoopi Goldberg) and Shug (Margaret Avert), so that's what I focused on for my favourite shot.
Click below for my favourite shot...
After a life of oppression, Shug comes along and gives Celie such great inner strength that serves her well throughout the entire film. She may be uncomfortable in this dress (she isn't even confident enough to look in the mirror), but Shug's enthusiastic encouragement in the background means the world to her. Just look at that sheepish grin! "The Color Purple" truly shines in these scenes, showing how simple acts of kindness and friendship between women can be the source of so much strength.
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What a great selection! This scene speaks volumes for the film's core, and it really highlights why Whoopi should have won that Oscar!
ReplyDeleteThanks. Whoopi really was fantastic here.
DeleteI love that even though I picked the same shot as you, we each come up with a largely different reading of what it means. Terrific way to stretch one's mind on how to interpret film. Great write-up!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
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