Film “The Master” by Paul Thomas Anderson: Subtext, Metaphors and Acts!

“The Master” is a 2012 American drama film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film explores themes of power, control, and belief, as well as the relationship between a charismatic cult leader and his troubled follower.

Subtext

1. The search for meaning: The film explores the human search for meaning and purpose in life, as well as the desire for connection and belonging.
2. Power dynamics: The relationship between Lancaster Dodd (Hoffman) and Freddie Quell (Phoenix) is marked by power dynamics, as Dodd exerts control over Quell and manipulates him for his own purposes.
3. Masculinity: The film also delves into the idea of masculinity and what it means to be a man, as both Dodd and Quell struggle with their own sense of masculinity and identity.

Metaphors

1. The ocean: The ocean serves as a recurring metaphor in the film, representing both the vastness of the human psyche and the unpredictability of life. The ocean is also used as a symbol of freedom and escape.
2. Alcohol: Alcohol is used as a metaphor for Quell’s troubled psyche, as his drinking is a manifestation of his inner turmoil and pain.

Motifs

1. Circular imagery: The film uses circular imagery, such as the repeated use of round windows and doorways, to suggest the cyclical nature of life and the characters’ struggles.
2. Animal imagery: The film uses animal imagery, such as the repeated use of snakes and pigs, to suggest the characters’ animalistic impulses and desires.
3. The color blue: The color blue is used as a recurring motif in the film, representing both freedom and confinement. The color blue is also associated with water and the ocean, tying into the film’s larger themes and metaphors.

The film is a complex and layered exploration of human psychology and relationships, and each element is carefully crafted to enhance the themes and emotions of the story.

Act I

In the first act, we’re introduced to Freddie Quell, a volatile and disturbed veteran who’s struggling to adjust to civilian life. We see him working as a photographer at a department store, where he’s fired after getting into a fight with a customer. He then stumbles upon a yacht that belongs to Lancaster Dodd, who invites him to join his movement, “The Cause.” Freddie is initially skeptical, but he’s drawn to Dodd’s charisma and begins to follow him. Dodd takes a keen interest in Freddie, and the two become close, with Dodd attempting to “cure” Freddie’s emotional turmoil.

Act II

In the second act, Dodd takes Freddie under his wing and begins to indoctrinate him into The Cause. We see the movement’s inner workings and the intense devotion of its members, as well as Dodd’s growing frustration with Freddie’s erratic behavior. Freddie becomes more and more entangled in The Cause, even as he struggles with doubts about Dodd’s teachings and his own sense of self. Meanwhile, Dodd’s family begins to question his authority and the legitimacy of his movement.

Act III

In the third act, the tensions between Dodd and Freddie come to a head, with Dodd accusing Freddie of being a liability to the movement. Freddie, feeling betrayed, abandons The Cause and goes on a drinking binge, culminating in a violent outburst at a department store. We see the aftermath of Freddie’s breakdown, as he reunites with Dodd, only to realize that their relationship is irreparably damaged. The film ends with Freddie wandering off, alone and uncertain of his future.