Have you ever stared into someone's eyes and felt the universe? Maybe that's a bit much for a Monday, but eyes are mysterious. They are reflections of the soul and secrets. We're about to explore films and stories centered around those captivating orbs we call eyes.
Reflections in a Golden Eye: More Than Just a Glimmer
Let's discuss "Reflections in a Golden Eye." This is not about treasure or a shiny monocle. The 1967 film, with Marlon Brando and Elizabeth Taylor, examines tensions in military life. Imagine a pressure cooker filled with complex emotions. Set in Italy, this film, based on a novel, covers voyeurism and jealousy. Think of it as a psychological drama with Italian scenery. We will address the author’s importance soon. Giving credit where it's due matters.
Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed: Mars Gets Under Your Skin, Literally
Next, we shift from golden drama to golden eyes from a Martian change. Ray Bradbury's short story "Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed" explores subtle horror. Picture moving to Mars to escape Earth’s woes. The Bittering family seeks refuge only to find Mars has its own plans. Their eye colors change, along with their identities.
The story's central idea is that going back home isn't always possible. It’s like the old saying about rivers. The Bittering family cannot return to old villages. They are no longer Earthlings. Their looks shift, their language changes. Soon enough, they chat in Martian with golden irises. The main themes include change, identity, and language—key concepts for the transformation ahead.
Mr. Harry Bittering, the protagonist, symbolizes fear of the unknown. He initially resists the changes on Mars. He desires to return to Earth. But life, particularly Martian life, persists. Gradually, he adapts to the Martian way of living and even their fashions. Outwardly, the plants and animals also go through change. Harry eventually realizes resisting is pointless. Acceptance becomes his mantra, and they must adapt to Martian realities.
How does this end? A Lieutenant and Captain arrive expecting an American colony. Instead, they find a desolate settlement. The settlers have vanished or transformed into Martians. They leave behind their Earthly identities for golden-eyed forms. This ending inspires reflection on home and identity. Should you pack sunscreen for Mars? Yes, even if it won’t prevent the eye change.
Secret in Their Eyes: Secrets, Lies, and a Whole Lot of Anguish
Next, we transition from Martians to human secrets in "Secret in Their Eyes." This film is a remake of an Argentinian thriller. FBI investigators Ray and Jess work with DA supervisor Claire. When Jess's daughter is murdered, things become grim. Thirteen years later, Ray still puzzles over the case. He discovers a new lead that could bring closure.
No one is prepared for the shocking secret that unfolds. Secrets often emerge at the worst moments, wreaking havoc. While "Secret in Their Eyes" features a great cast, it lacks the original's brilliance. Recreating masterpieces is tough. Consider it "well-made" but still lacking magic. If you seek a tense thriller and haven't seen the original, it's worth a watch. Just prepare for some emotional challenges.
GoldenEye (James Bond): Shaken, Not Stirred, and Definitely Golden
Now let’s explore "GoldenEye." This James Bond adventure marks Pierce Brosnan's debut as the secret agent. The film brims with action and stunning locations. Remember that iconic bungee jump? Filmed at the Contra Dam in Switzerland. Casino scenes occurred in Monte Carlo, while tank chases took place in Saint Petersburg.
But why "GoldenEye"? It's not just a code name; it comes from Ian Fleming's Jamaican estate. Fleming named it after an operation he led called Operation GoldenEye. There are layers upon layers of origins here. Moreover, "M," Bond's boss, isn't merely a letter; it's a codename for MI6's head. Fleming modeled "M" after leaders of British intelligence.
Valley of Light and The Eye: Location, Location, Location
We should quickly mention "Valley of Light" and "The Eye." "Valley of Light," a Hallmark film, filmed in St. Paul, Oregon, and Los Angeles. "The Eye," a supernatural thriller, set up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Filming sites influence a movie's ambiance considerably. Imagine "Valley of Light" in a bustling city or "The Eye" in a thick forest—unimaginable, right?
Authorship: Giving Credit Where It's Due (and Naming Names)
We've discussed authors here and there. Let's reaffirm some credits. Ray Bradbury wrote "Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed," a sci-fi classic that resonates strongly. Jeffrey Archer crafted "An Eye For An Eye." Caitlin Doughty is known for "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes."
And Other Lessons from the Crematory." Authors are the unsung heroes. They craft stories that captivate us on screen and page. Let’s applaud them.
Mr. Bittering's Realization: Martian Acceptance is the First Step
Mr. Bittering in "Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed" shows us adaptation. He starts in fear, imagining Martian threats in the dust. Earth feels like safety, but return is impossible. Rockets are destroyed. The war on Earth rages. Mars becomes the lesser evil. He and his family adapt, learning Martian ways and maybe liking Martian food.
End of "Dark They Were, and Golden-Eyed": Deserted Dreams
The ending of "Dark They Were, and Golden-Eyed" is creepy yet subtle. Lieutenant and Captain land to find deserted homes. They expect a hero's welcome but find only silence. The settlers transformed, becoming part of Mars. This reflects how change can be internal and irreversible.
Character Relationships: Hollywood Cordiality
End of "In Your Eyes": A Boxcar of Hope
Switching to "In Your Eyes" now. This film is a quirky love story with a twist. The two protagonists unite physically in an empty boxcar. Amidst the rumble of trains, they share a kiss. It symbolizes their connection and journey's culmination. It’s a hopeful ending that fits its whimsical style.
Evaluation of "Secret in Their Eyes": Original vs. Remake
"Secret in Their Eyes" is a remake, which invites comparisons. Many feel the American version lacks the original's depth and emotional resonance. Critics praise the Argentinian film for its brilliance. It's a classic case of "good but not as good." Watch both and judge for yourself.
Harry's and Cora's Reasons to Stay Martian: No Going Back, and Maybe No Desire To
We've noted Harry Bittering's reasons for staying on Mars: no rockets and war on Earth. But Cora, his wife, sees Mars as sanctuary, a safe place from atomic threats. While Harry clings to the past, Cora embraces Mars's new beginning. For her, staying is a choice, a desire for a safe future.
Symbolism of the Eye: More Than Meets the... Eye
Eyes symbolize many things. They can protect or signify awareness and healing. The "evil eye" deflects bad energy. The "Eye of Providence" symbolizes divine guidance. The "Eye of Horus" offers protection. The "Hamsa" is another protector. Eyes hold deep meaning beyond mere sight; they convey belief.
Meaning of "Golden Eyed": Literally Golden Irises
“Golden-eyed” literally refers to yellow or golden irises. In "Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed," it symbolizes Martian transformation and the settlers' changing identity. Beyond the literal, it evokes mystery and the supernatural. Golden eyes suggest something extraordinary.
"Eye for an Eye" Concept: Justice, Retribution, and... Turning the Other Cheek?
The phrase "eye for an eye" relates to justice. In Islam, it denotes "al-qasas," where punishment equals the crime. The Bible's Matthew 5:38-48 mentions it but urges followers to seek non-violence and forgiveness. This juxtaposition raises deeper questions about justice and the cycle of violence.
Symbolism of Eyes in Literature: Insight and Revelation
In literature, eyes hold power. They represent insight and reveal inner thoughts. Characters' eyes can reflect emotions or foreshadow events. "Piercing eyes" symbolize perception, while "shifty eyes" hint at deceit. Eyes do more than see; they reveal deeper truths in narratives.
"Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" in "Always": Spielberg and Sentimental Tunes
The song "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" got a new twist in Spielberg’s 1989 movie "Always." JD Souther covered the song and appeared too, serenading Dreyfuss and Hunter at a dance. This moment fits themes of love and second chances. The song enhances the scene's emotional impact.
Caitlin Doughty's Book: A Mortician's Memoir
Caitlin Doughty’s "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory" is more than about death; it's a coming-of-age story with a morbid touch. Doughty shares experiences in the death industry, blending humor with profound insights on mortality. It’s a personal memoir challenging our cultural taboos around death.
So there you have it, a tour through the world of eyes—golden eyes, secret eyes, literary eyes, and those of the deceased. From Martian transformations to cinematic explorations, eyes symbolize our fears and desires. Now, I’ll ponder the mysteries of my own ordinary eyes.
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