Examples Of Conformity In Pleasantville

"Edward Scissorhands", and "Pleasantville" are the films directed by Tim Burton and Garry Ross , both are set in 1950's suburbia and explore the complicated social concept of 'conformity'. The audience is immediately presented with the belief that conformity within both of these society's leads to a Utopia, as initially no conflict or issues are presented until later in the film. Uniformity within the beliefs of all characters seems to be a safe option in order to prevent conflict, thus remaining as a Utopian society. The films represent the restriction caused by the harsh chains of conformity , leading to boredom and extreme mediocracy. Both texts show blindly following the crowd being a sheep leads to dangerous and harmful situations. Contrary …show more content…
David is used by Gary Ross to represent the appeal of what a utopian society Pleasantville appears to be. He spends a lot of time watching the reruns to the point where he knows every line, and every episode. This is demonstrated at three different times, when David talks to his friend about the show, when David is quizzed by the man who gives them the remote, and when David is also brought into the show he is aware on how to act and what to say in every scenario. Pleasantville appears to be an escape to David, as to him it is evidence the town is very welcoming, warm, caring and has no conflict at all in contrast to David's real life where his parents don't even want him around. Similar to how Edward felt isolated, the show draws in David by presenting what he has never had in his life before, good family values. Even to those who don't struggle, Pleasantville is appealing to many members of the town as shown through different characters, and through the show hosting a large competition. Conformity can be seen through the exterior of the environment, all houses have a white picket fence, females all dress the same, and every guy has slick back hair, and everyone smiles to maintain what appears to be a pleasant …show more content…
Whilst presented as the best option the contrary is true. Individuality is shown to be of extreme value in both films. Edward is unable to have a lasting effect on the town and is quickly forgotten, but is free to live his life full of creativity how he pleases, but faces isolation as a price. David is more lucky on the other hand as he breaks the chains of conformity and has a lasting effect on the now free town. David's efforts to oppose conformity are successful and he demonstrates that there is more important values then minor things such as different colour, interest, and more. He shows everyone that they all have feelings. Edward is close to freeing the town through his own example of being free, however Joyce shuts down Edwards attempt to prevent herself and others from ever having to handle their individual issues. Instead they all blame it on Edward, and hide behind the safety conformity provides them with. Both films leave the societies with the vital message of how opposing conformity is difficult but the end result is beneficial to those who prioritise their individuality, voice, and

Show More

Related Documents: Examples Of Conformity In Pleasantville

Themes In Pleasantville