Comparison/Contrast Brief: Which Movie Better Represents "Ha

Comparison/Contrast Brief: Which Movie Better Represents "Harrison Bergeron"?

Choose ONE of the movies based on "Harrison Bergeron" to compare/contrast to the short story. You are answering this question: Which movie better represents Vonnegut's story? Think about the 1) atmosphere (the music, the brightness/darkness of the lighting), 2) the setting (time and place the story is set), 3) the story line (plot), 4) the character development (what is Harrison like?), 5) moral or message, and 6) the ending. Choose TWO of those to compare (finding similarities) OR contrast (finding differences) and create a 1-2 page thesis-driven essay. You must use TWO quotations from the short story (one for each main point) and cite the page numbers where you found them.

Paper For Above instruction

In Kurt Vonnegut's short story "Harrison Bergeron," the themes of enforced equality and government control are explored through a dystopian narrative set in a future America. The story examines the ways in which attempts to achieve absolute equality can undermine individual freedoms and lead to oppressive societal conditions. Regarding adaptations of this story into film, the long movie version offers a different interpretation of the story's core messages, particularly in terms of atmosphere and character portrayal. This essay will compare and contrast the atmosphere and character development as presented in the short story and the long movie adaptation to determine which more effectively captures Vonnegut's original intent.

Firstly, examining the atmosphere reveals notable differences between the two media. In the short story, Vonnegut constructs a bleak, oppressive mood through descriptions that highlight the dullness and restrictions placed upon individuals. The mood is subdued; the lighting is often dull, mirroring a society burdened by Equality Enforcement laws. Vonnegut writes, "The year was 2081, and everybody was finally equal" (p. 14). This line emphasizes the sterile, uniform world where all individuality is suppressed. Conversely, the long movie adaptation shifts towards a more vibrant and often seemingly cheerful visual tone, with brighter lighting and lively music, to make the oppressive theme more visually palatable. Despite this, the film attempts to retain the story's core message by contrasting bright visuals with underlying chaos, although this can dilute Vonnegut's original bleak atmosphere.

Secondly, character development, especially Harrison's character, reveals contrasting portrayals. In the story, Harrison is depicted as a rebellious and strong-willed individual who challenges the society’s ideals: "Harrison tore the straps off and shot the gazer" (p. 14). His defiance embodies the human spirit's resistance to enforced conformity. The story emphasizes his bravery and tragic end, underscoring the dangers of government overreach. In contrast, the long movie presents Harrison as an almost caricatured hero, often overly dramatic and less nuanced, which can diminish his role as a symbol of resistance. The film sometimes portrays him as a larger-than-life figure whose actions feel less organic and more scripted, which affects the depth of his character and reduces the impact of his defiance as a critique of societal control.

In conclusion, while the long movie adaptation offers a more engaging and visually appealing experience, it somewhat sacrifices the original's haunting atmosphere and nuanced character portrayal. However, the movie's vivid visuals and heightened emotions make it more accessible and entertaining. Nonetheless, Vonnegut's story's power lies in its subdued tone and complex characters, which the short story captures more effectively. Therefore, the story itself remains more faithful in delivering the profound warnings about equality and government control that Vonnegut intended.

References

• Vonnegut, K. (1961). "Harrison Bergeron." In Kurt Vonnegut's Short Stories. (pp. 14-15).
• Long Movie Title. (Year). Director. Production Company.
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