Be Right Back
Ash 2
As I was watching "Be Right Back" in class, I couldn't help but have this eerie feeling in my chest that continued throughout the entire film. I watched as a woman grieved over the loss of the love of her life and didn't know what to do as his death really sunk into her heart. In reality, I understand why she decided to first talk to Ash 2 and then buy a life like humanoid of him. No, I'd never do it myself, but I understand. It's hard losing someone you love. All the pain and sadness taking over every part of your body, mind, and soul and never letting go. But being on the outside watching this, reminded of the Uncanny Valley by Masahiro Mori.
The Uncanny Valley and Ash
I think for most people, the reason Ash 2 is so freaky to us, is because he is so life like. (Yes, I know. It is a real person in the movie but for argument sake.) He is basically Ash 1 all over besides the fact that there are somethings he does not know, like his and Martha's private relationship that isn't broadcasted on social media or email. Ash 2 is uncanny to us because "it is not known or familiar" to us. Or as Sigmund Freud calls it "Das Unheimlische" or the opposite of familiar. In the photo above, you see Martha's apprehension towards Ash 2. I mean, who wouldn't be apprehensive. But slowly, she understands that it's not Ash. But it takes her awhile to realize that Ash 2 is not helping her grieving process in any way, shape, or form. So what would I do if I was given the opportunity to have a loved one back with me?
My Grandfather
Two and half years ago, on the dreadful day of February 24th, 2016, I lost my best friend, my Papaw. After 11 hard years of no longer walking, no longer talking, doctors appointments, complete bed rest, and so much more, my Papaw took his last breath. Two and half years ago, I would have done anything to hear him tell me he loves me or that I was his little girl. I would have done anything to see him. To kiss his cheeks, hug his neck, smell his cologne. I would have done the same thing Martha did. But now, I couldn't do that to myself. I'm finally getting to a place where I've accepted that he is gone. And the only grandfather I knew was a sick one. I can't torture myself with that all over again. My grandfather's humanoid would be too uncanny for me.
1 comment:
My grandfather passed away around this time last year. For most of the film, all I could think about was what I would do if this type of technology was available. I, too, would have probably tried to bring him back into my life in some sort of way. I was by no means close to him; he lived on the opposite side of the world and I had only seen him three times in my life. But getting just one more experience with him when I had so little would have meant a lot. However, now that time has passed, the idea of it seems very strange to me and i definitely would not have done it.
Post a Comment