Firstly, sorry about the terrible audio, this was my 1st ever video 7 years ago and I had no idea what I was doing, especially with the the recording. If your a PTA fan, why not check out my video on 'THERE WILL BE BLOOD' th-cam.com/video/_bjQ7ZM1Ro4/w-d-xo.html
Pdl is one of my favourite movies... Interesting thing here you have told about the parallel storyline with Superman but I think the parallel just happened to be rather than pta trying to convey it and being aware of it.Maybe little bit of alienation is same but there are stronger windows of influence through which one could analyze pdl than superman's story. U have to see jon brion interview on criterion collection where he shared the talk with pta about the feelings and visual poetry of the movie....Pta apparently was at that point obsessed with 50's Hollywood musicals like singin in the rain...with the colour and mood stuff... And as the score was written before the shot was complete...it was as if movie was almost shot to music...jon brion recalls the moment when he told pta.."so this movie is a musical..like old hollywood musical but nobody breaks out on a song and choreographed dance...but there is that sense of heightened drama in everything just like hollywood musicals...So I am saying that Barry eigen jump could mean his heightened sense of fear rather than superman jump...(before barry runs..the bad guys had taken his money..punched him and already gone away in the truck..they even say sth to him..but barry just runs and runs..and that one would obviously not do in real life and jump to get away from bad people in real life but ppl don't break out in songs in real life either...but sometimes the fantasy expresses practical and normal things better due to much freedom to show character's state..in fantasy sorta state...so i think that jump you are so occupied with just maybe an extension to let us know how much barry eigen is scared...how much he wants to get away)So i am saying Pta really had the hollywood musicals and that sorta fantasy to show caharcters state....superman theory may not be the only reason fir that jump... Also , you left out the godard picture unn femme est unn femme..and it's visual influence..if u havent seen that..it's a godard picture sorta cool and anti cinematic where the director is self aware of making a film...it's cool french wave thing... So , I think u are missing those influences here too...I am just not believing only Superman was the influence..for the narrative and the character... Obvioulsy there is parallel with the superman finding strength from love...but always pt anderson characters are deeply troubled individuals who somehow manage to make spot in your heart...just make u empathize or pitiful Mark wahlberg in boigie nights.. Plainview...freddie quell ...woodcock all are disturbed heroes...at least they are nit john wayne kinda hero..who represent good... So it just seems to me pta wanted to say love gives purpose..and for that he had to oppose that idea and at last disprove the opposition ..otherwise if he just showed love gives strength and purpose and stuff throughout the movie...it would have been boring preaching movie...but that sense of finding love and strength is in all pta movies... It's an interesting way to look at pdl but u have left out some big influences in this video...u might be aware of some though...But the superman similarity i guess is only a 5% correct... At least that jump is not mimicing superman...superman flew when he was sad, angry or in agony, when he was happy with love...or when he was saving something...rarely had superman been afraid and flew to save himself.. But interesting way to look at pdl... U might have looked this up already but check out jon brion interviews in criterion collection and this link... www.a2pcinema.com/archive/PDL/influences.htm
Hey Thanks Anish for the details response. Yeah I agree, I became obsessed with this film years ago and tried to dig into all its influences and that website you shared was one of those places. This video isn't anywhere near a fully comprehensive analysis of the film its just pointing out the superman details, which I'm sure PTA wasn't fully intentionally adding, if even at all, but I did find it interesting and a fun idea to share so thats why it focuses just on those elements. I too love this film and I'm endlessly fascinated with film form used to create this film.
@@_MUSTSEEFILMS_ yes...franscis ford coppola said to pta during an interview ...pdl was nothing like he'd ever seen...you should see that if u haven't...it's coppola answering questions about film on questions of pta david o russel and twilights director...
Oh I don't care much about the sound quality, it's about the quality of the fan theory and how you lay it out.... and I love this fan theory man, probably my favorite fan theory on youtube 👍
@@mabusestestament thats awesome to hear. Someone recently sent me the original script for what PDL was before it became PDL, like an early draft of the script and it had some superman references in it, which is very bizarre, thats why this person contacted me and sent me the early script, so you never know.
Also PTA is quoted as saying he was directing this film to create a feeling as if aliens were watching everything that happens, looking on from just outside the frame at all times. That ties in PERFECTLY with the Superman thing. There is no mention of Barry’s parents or otherwise origins beyond the background with the sisters, which as is mentioned in the video is already related to the stars in astrological terms. Superman’s parents are aliens from an Earth perspective. So at first the feeling of something watching from a distance takes on a more paranoid tone, which dissipates as Barry realizes his strength.
Barry's parents are mentioned in the movie. When his sisters are talking about him before he enters the party. "...mom and dad had to take him to the hospital" it's hard to hear because they're all talking at the same time but it's there. I love the theory still and the references are hard to miss.
Just got to see Punch Drunk Love again in 35mm at the local cinema last night. I've loved this film for years, and it is one of my all time favorites. Led me to look into some story analysis today. Love your Superman insights. What strikes me each time I see the film is the play of light in the film: from extremely dark space and silhouettes to blinding sunlight, often in the same shot, colorful flashes of lensflare, complex moving shadows, a joyful homage to the film medium itself, the play of light through colored transparency. Jon Brion's soundtrack is singular and extraordinary. Thank you for your input!
+Stephen Bushman So jealous you got to see a print of the film, bet that was awesome. I feel in love instantly with the film, a balance between the intimacy and insecurity of Barry Egan and the style, colour, lighting and music in the film!
I first seen this film back in 2004 and had no idea what i just watched, but somehow i still loved the film. After watching this analysis i think you're dead on with everything you've said. This film still continues to amaze me, This is Adam Sandler at his Best!
I saw it in the theatres when it first came out, and literally half the people walked out. While I went a second time and bought it on DVD on the release date. Eh, some people are not very open and appreciative of anything beyond Jurassic World or Transformers.
I just saw the film, and this is an amazing analysis I hadnt even thought about. I noticed how his sisters were weakening him and Lena strengthening himself and his emotional control, but I never thought about all this. Great job :)
I enjoy watching these breakdown of films, because I'm extremely unobservant and just sit and enjoy the film in the moment. I like seeing these analyses from smart people and having all the "a-ha" moments. Thank you ! Now I love this film even more.
EXCEPT that it's POPEYE (the Altman film) that PTA is referencing!! That's the filter to watch the movie through!!! A few obvious bits of evidence: the song "He Needs Me" is actually sung by Olive Oyl in that film and used in this one. Emily Watson is so often in red, like olive oyl, sandler in blue like popeye, and then you've got the stocky villain in Philip Seymour Hoffman. Popeye is the violent super strong hero... but he's a dork until powered by LOVE. This movie is truly a masterpiece for many, many reasons... but I strongly urge everyone to take another look with Popeye in mind, not SUPERMAN.
+Adam Cohen or both? I mean.. I can see PTA wanting to be a little more broad rather than "this is my Altman film" which I hear quite a lot. Darren has some great points here. I'm not so sure about the whole Kryptonite thing but that broken glass plunger next to the "Fortress of Solitude"? That confirmed it for me. Perhaps it was to bring out similarities between the two or to add his own "superhero" on to the list of greats.
Thanks, Glad you liked it. Yeah it was the colours that really started it for me. I love how you can enjoy this movie by itself but finding out little bits about it makes it rewarding on multiple viewings!!
Nobody noticed that his tie's colour changes when he gets on the plane... But I still love the movie, gotta admit, it's superb (and great analysis as well)!
great upload. I love this movie. You may know some of this, you have covered so much.. but I'll mention it anyway. after Barry breaks the unbreakable plungers, (its a funny/ awkward moment) But as he is in his fortress of solitude having an anxiety attack and trying to calm his nerves by mastering the "organ" which represents his heart/emotions....we see very subtley over his shoulder his co worker trying to break one of the plungers and he cannot break it. Re inforcing the super strength theme. oh you actually caught some of it here..look in the background .....10:32. theres an earlier scene also.. Other things to note..the phone , showing his disconnect or attempt to connect but it always ending up badly...when he finaly confronts matress man he rips the phone from the wall and goes to confront him face to face.. The whole superman theme is a nod to the heros journey Im sure. See Heros journey Joseph cambell
Thanks glad you enjoyed it and sound like a real PDL fan, its such an awesome film, yeah i love the bit where his co-worker is trying to break it but can't, i mention that point and a whole bunch of other little details about the film in my full length commentary to PDL: th-cam.com/video/dMAphMfHayw/w-d-xo.html Also i love the work of Joseph Campbell, iv got some of his DVDs and been using it alot recently for a little project I'm writing. Thanks for the support!!
This film is recommended by my friend because he thought i'm almost the same as Barry, has a cool exterior and would explode when pushed to the limits (he actually saw me explode). But I guess you can see how when people are pushed to the limits starting from a young age and continues to adulthood. Kept his feelings shut until the day someone comes to his life and gave him meaning to fight. I feel so happy when he screams at his sister for holding out the number to Lena. But there's a lesson here, Do Not Fuck With An Introvert. Great Analysis bro
Mr. Chopstick Thanks man glad you enjoyed it, yeah i think the reason i fell for this film in the first place was because i felt like i was quite like Barry, not so much with the rage but more the feeling of isolation even when being around people and always feeling a little alienated.
The woman in red, in the background as Barry searches for Healthy Choice products, gave me chills. He even looks at her and she walks away. I never noticed that before and this is my favorite movie.
Thanks I'm glad you found it interesting, PDL is one of my favourites too, i recorded a full length commentary mentioning in real time why i love this film and pointing out little details like that, feel free to check it out here: Punch-Drunk Love (FULL LENGTH FILM COMMENTARY)
+Ryan Steinle I know so many little things like this are so interesting, one of these alone doesn't really mean much but in the context of other supporting evidence it makes for a stronger augment that PTA might have had this in the back burner or was sub-coniously pulling from sources such as superman.
+Darren - MUST SEE FILMS Great video just re-watched the movie a second time and had to watch this video and I was thinking about why barry had trouble with words like "food" to "good" and "back" to "jack" like he'd have trouble talking about things and took a step back as well particularly with females
You got me...who's got you? I am so impressed by this analysis. I had no idea of this movie, i was listening to a podcast about the movie Magnolia and ended up watching Punch-Drunk Love. I did think superman a few times while watching..but your take is amazing...i will have to check what else you have on this channel. Thank you for a posting this!!!!!
maybe, but choosing to be in goofy movies probably has less of an emotional toll on someone. While his movies mostly suck, they just seem like fun projects between friends. Meanwhile the average actor has to fake cry every day, be constantly in the spotlight, and jump between block busters that don't allow time with their own family.
Your videos are genius! I had no idea any of this was going on in the movie, I've watched all three of your Paul Thomas Anderson videos and they really give a whole new appreciation to the man as a filmmaker. Amazingly well done, looking forward to all your analysis videos.
Thanks man, Those PTA films where an amazing place to start for me and i love those films, but i think my prisoners analysis is probably the best iv done, or my the fountain. Thanks for the supportive feedback!
foleyd87 Looks like the copyright gestapo took your Prisoners video down, which WB shouldn't be able to do under section 107 of the Copyright Act, it's a review.
Hi i recent subscribed to your channel and I have to say that I'm truly impressed by you. You have analysed some of my favorite films such as Drive, Shame, The Place Beyond the Pines and Punch-Drunk Love. Please keep up the great work.
Yeah Lances chair breaking still confuses me, even though it makes me laugh, but i think Barry walking into the glass has something to do with transparency, He is so trapped in mental boundaries created in his own mind that he doesn't even realise.
The homage to Kubrick is most felt in using colors to convey a character's mood or circumstance. Think Eyes Wide Shut. You have made another great film analysis Darren!
That is amazing!! i have seen this film literally hundreds of times and have never spotted that. great example to support Barry's superhuman strength. Thanks for the great addition.
The full screen color effect could have been used to suggest, in a sneaky way, the hero's use of special travel powers; he went from his home/fortress of LA (?) to Utah ( for the "Thats that" confrontation) in five minutes!!
Mate, now that I've seen all your PTA analyses, I'm very impressed. Such unique depth to your interpretations, you never cease to fascinate me! I hope PTA finds these videos because I'm sure he'd appreciate them. I'd love to see your take on Hard Eight, because that's a film I really enjoyed that not many people know or discuss.
Thanks, glad you liked it. Thats amazing you noticed the railing jump too, thats the same point I started to think there was more to the story and led to this video. Thanks for the spelling error also. Iv been working on 'There will be blood' and it should be up in the next 2 weeks, so if you enjoy that film too then keep an eye out for it.
Look at 10:31 at the hand he uses to punch the wall with the map on it and you'll see the word "LOVE" on his bruised knuckle... I thought that was cool... Also, DAMN! This analysis is GOOD...
Mark Kermode regularly raves about Punch Drunk Love and holds it up as an example of why you have to always keep an open mind going into a film, because you never know when you're about to see an actor or director's best work. Like Kermode, I've never been a fan of Adam Sandler movies and with the exception of Click, I've only watched them at friends' houses because they wanted to see them. But Kermode was at it again recently, promoting this film and encouraging everyone to see it so I decided to give it a go and downloaded it to my iTunes account. I really don't know how I feel about the film itself, but I did feel an empathy towards Barry and I enjoyed Sandler's performance of a lonely, awkward, borderline psychotic and yet nice, well-meaning guy. Emily Watson was a little too perfect but her character worked in the context of the film. There is an undercurrent of desperation, from both of them, in their burgeoning love affair but it plays as quite sweet and I did find myself routing for them. Some films stick with you for a few days after you watch them. The last one to do this to me was Enemy, the Jake Gyllenhaal doppelgänger tale, which I watched a few weeks ago, and only came to really understand with the help of some TH-cam film analysis. I hadn't at all considered the Superman angle of Punch Drunk Love, but as laid out in this video, there does seem to be a kernel of truth about it - enough to wonder whether it was deliberate on Paul Thomas Anderson's part. Certainly an interesting take and one I will bear in mind when I re-visit the film. I have quite a large movie collection and Philip Seymour Hoffman has tended to be in the background of it; a member of large ensemble casts in Boogie Nights and Magnolia, a supporting role in Almost Famous and I've never watched Before the Devil Knows You're Dead, despite having had the DVD for years. But I was very impressed by his performance in Doubt, opposite Meryl Streep, which I saw on TV recently, and again here in Punch Drunk Love. I suspect I'm going to add him to my list of actors whose entire body of work I must see (though I might be kind to myself and forego the Mission:Impossible entry, if only on the grounds of appalling use of a colon!), and I equally suspect that the realisation of just how good an actor he was will awaken me to the extent of the talent we lost with his untimely passing.
rocheyb1 Im glad to hear you gave PDL a shot, its a film that i loved instantly but have watched it sooooo many times that my love for it have deepened with each watch, i created a PDL full length commentary at discusses the film in real time and points out why i love and admire the film form in it so much, feel free to listen to that along with the film, its in my iTunes page. Hope this helps. itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/must-see-films/id908138731
Yeah PTA is a genius, im glad you like the videos, keep Im in the middle of creating a new podcast for youtube so that will be out soon, sharing some of my favourite and most meaningful films!
On another youtube video I was watching on Paul Thomas Anderson, this one kid commented on it calling PTA the Stanley Kubrick of our time. I didn't understand why he would have said that until now.
Just a thought could be totallly off but when Barry is about to get on the plane to Hawaii two similar looking and dressed lady's are waiting for him. Maybe a parallel to the shinning's twin sisters down the hallway?
Thats a really interesting point, makes me think of 'The Wizard of Oz' perhaps a reference to Barry leaving his comfort zone to grow and mature only to return as a happier individual having facing adversity. Never really realised that before, great spot.
Yeah i had noticed the same yellow tie and always wondered the change? maybe something to do with Superman getting his power from the sun and when Barry flys he recharges himself and arrives stronger than ever and more certain of his plan for Lena. who knows?
Barry's all blue suit to me seems more like a visual representation of what he is feeling on the inside, and that is loneliness, fear, rage, and even hope after meeting lola. It has been scientifically researched in films that colors help the audience better interpret the mood/ feelings of the characters on screen Even Lola's dress is conveying something to the audience, which is that she is the catalyst Barry has been long waiting for. Lolas Red dress signifies the color of her love and trust.
Thanks. Yeah the Lens Flares are usually at a point were 'sparks are flying' between Barry and Lena. Like when they first meet, when they are walking to the bedroom for the first time in Miami and at the end of the film when there love is fully established. Its just an awesome way of PTA showing us that magic is happening during these moments.
Thanks, This probably my favourite PTA film and his least watched but my TWBB analysis has been viewed more because of the films success. Im excited for The Master too but i live in the UK so its not out here for a while.
you really give people completely new ways to look at films. You're analysis videos are endlessly fascinating. I was blown away by this. Keep making videos, please!
The one piece if evidence that fully convinced me was the plungers representing the crystal things in the fortress of solitude. Like that's a bit too on the nose for PTA
@Slevin I would say that Inherent Vice is PTA's Big Lebowski. They both follow perpetually stoned, scruffy dudes thru some very mysterious, bizarre, but hilarious rabbit holes.
I love this analysis. About the Seven Sisters constellation: I read somewhere a while ago that the Seven Sisters is related to ancient Hawaiian traditions (they have a festival etc.). It might be just a coincidence, but it does seem appropriate that Barry and Lena share a romantic "vacation" in Hawaii :)
In the credits, Georgia is also listed as "Phone Sex Sister" even though she has a name. This could be because she, like Barry's real sisters, is a part of his "kryptonite" and weakness.
Really appreciate ur insight on the pta movies they are so rich and layered. No one paints a picture with color like pta. Im always drawn to look for the meanings in his colors
yeh i really like that. Every time Barry moves out his comfort zone he is met with danger and potential love. really good point about Dean, that supports him having an old piano at his work, maybe representing a lost love in his life.
I have connected the dots! The Master - Let There Be Light There Will Be Blood - The Treasure of the Sierra Madre Punch Drunk Love - Superman Magnolia - Network Boogie Nights - Goodfellas Sydney - Bad Day at Black Rock
Awesome vid. A couple more color things I noticed: the only one of Barry's in-laws who is nice to him wears a red shirt, and the girl cutting the Mattress Man's hair is wearing green!
Did anyone notice that at some point in the movie (I think it's when Barry punches the wall in his office) when Barry's knuckles are supposed to be hurt from punching, instead of blood, there's something written on them? see 10:29 (approx.)
It was always at the back of my head that it was very slightly odd that a genius like Anderson would use a joke as simple as the toilet plunger shattering, and watching it with the double-meaning, it fits now. What I want to know now is the meaning behind the even simpler joke of Barry bumping into the glass door (or, for that matter, Lance breaking the chair).
@@BrianMcInnis87 the setup is what you expect to happen. Someone walks towards the door, you expect them to open it - punchline. Someone goes to sit on a chair, you expect them to sit down safely - punchline. These little easy gags just set the tone for the story to be slightly more humourous.
Glad you liked it and yeah your right, this is the first video i ever made and my recording skills weren't great. I wish i could go back and fix this video but ill just have to live with it.
@angrykramer- Thanks, Im thinking about doing 'There will be blood', but PDL is a personal fav of mine. I really enjoy Rob Agers work as i love Kubrick.
i may do no country, but both the shining and 2001 have been done, youtube rob ager, his analysis of both films are what got me started on PTA stuff. im also planning on doing Inception soon too.
well alot of people have been asking for Lynch and Malick, i might do a few examples of some short films as well. Im to suggestions if you have a film, thats why i did There will be blood and The Master.
You can't go one video without somehow working Kubrick into it can you? :P That being said, this is fantastic. I saw the film many years ago and I could never explain to me myself why the car crashes... Thank you so much for explaining it!
The one other comment I have for the video, and please don't think I'm trying to disrespect you or anything, but why didn't you go into why PT Anderson used the Superman themes in the film? I guess it pretty much goes without saying that it's suppose to be a comment on how a love and connection with another person is really enough to turn you from an isolated and emotionally lonely person into your own private "Superman". This is especially signaled when Lena literally completes his transformation by becoming his cape. I could go into more depth but it guess it's pretty self explanatory. Did you have a similar or different interpretation as to why he used the Superman ideas? I truly do love this film, it's so idiosyncratic and strangely uplifting, but really thank you so much to opening my eyes to the Superman themes, it really completes how I've interpreted the movie to myself over the years :)
Thanks really glad this video has reached another PDL love, i also love this film and have a real soft spot for it. The reason i think PTA has used these themes to comment on Barry is because Clark Kent is perceived as a human but is really an alien in this world, the way that Barry is isolated and just doesn't seem to fit in or know how to. Barry's journey to superman status for me is one of deep personal growth but almost a realisation of a deep power and strength which has always been within it, plus the emotional weakness of superman's heart is another similar that Barry shares. Im not 100% that all this is intentional but its certainly interesting and thought provoking.
Ahh I like that idea too! After thinking it over I'm pretty sure the Superman themes are very intentional, but I believe the reason PT hasn't really brought it up in interviews is because he doesn't want it to overwhelm the film, cause of course this isn't a cheeky Superman adaptation, he's just channeling the isolation of the character.
Exactly!!! well put, i totally 10% agree with you! Its no so strong that it takes over the film but serves as subtext for the character loneliness and human isolation and ultimately his inner strength through human weakness and love!
Spectacular work. A friend had told me of the parallels, I'm not sure if he was referring to your video in particular, though. (and a quick audio tip: pick up a pop filter for your mic :) )
I like your analysis a lot. It makes sense. My original thought on the film was that it was about Popeye but I think yours is more accurate. My reasons for thinking Popeye are: Popeye also wears the same costume everyday. Some of it blue like a Navy sailor. Olive Oyl wore red. The obvious is, of course, the song which drew me into the theory. Barry's sisters are the goons. Popeye is often quite bumbling and gets beat up by Bluto until, he finds his strength in the form of spinach.
I just watched your "There Will Be Blood" analysis and had to see this one...well then, I'd heard the parallels before, but this opened my eyes to the fact that...MAYbe...PDL is a reinterpretation of the Superman mythos. Wow. DEEP. and awesome.
Fantastic analysis foleyd87! I would love to see these analysis videos in the future: No Country For Old Men, The Shining, and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Keep up the great work!
As a sidenote, ever notice how every time Barry meets with Lena that the next day his tie is the color of her dress? Except for in Hawaii, where he had no change of clothes. A little something somebody else picked up on back when the movie came out.
Thanks, yeah iv watched all of Robs work before they got taken down off youtube, now you have to buy from his website, ill probably get 'unseen reflections' and check it out. thanks
Have you noticed that the truck that passes at 5m43s is the same one that passes when he collects the piano. The first time it passes really quick - maybe shows his life is chaotic and out of control. The second time its slower - he is more relaxed in in control of his life at that point. I dunno just an idea. Excellent video anyway. Really looking forward to "The Master" still a while to wait in the UK though.
i just love this film, i went through a phase of watching it all the time and started picking out liked points and then after some research and more watching i started to notice more and more things.
thanks I'm glad you enjoyed it, the colours was the main thing i noticed and i went through a phases of watching this everyday for a while and started noticing and read lots of things in it. When i started to look for clues more things just kept popping up.
foleyd87 I see. But I guess it demands some kind of bigger interest in the Superman universe to see that, right? Cause maybe if I was I fan I would've noticed but it never came across my mind at all. Maybe I just didn't think a movie like that, although being a PTA movie, would have that kind of symbolic meaning. - But thanks for an awesome analysis man, I enjoyed your 'There Will Be Blood' analysis too! I was surprised to have figured out a lot myself in that one, but you gave some very interesting points there as well, that I hadn't noticed. When and what is your next analysis??
Thanks, yeah I was brought up on the original superman films and batman cartoons so they've always been in the background for me. The jumping scene when Barry is being chased is so weird and out of place it made me want to research this film more and somehow arrived at this video. Glad you enjoyed the TWBB analysis, its a favourite film of mine and i enjoyed it so much more the more i searched in it. Im working on an analysis right now, got like 17 pages of text to structure then record into audio and the edit the visuals along with. Don't want to spoil the film yet but its shaping up to be one of the best iv done, very excited to share it, just been pretty time consuming.
Thanks, this was a fun video to explore, but I always cringe at how bad the production is, especially the audio, but it was my 1st video. Always learning.
Firstly, sorry about the terrible audio, this was my 1st ever video 7 years ago and I had no idea what I was doing, especially with the the recording. If your a PTA fan, why not check out my video on 'THERE WILL BE BLOOD' th-cam.com/video/_bjQ7ZM1Ro4/w-d-xo.html
Pdl is one of my favourite movies...
Interesting thing here you have told about the parallel storyline with Superman but I think the parallel just happened to be rather than pta trying to convey it and being aware of it.Maybe little bit of alienation is same but there are stronger windows of influence through which one could analyze pdl than superman's story.
U have to see jon brion interview on criterion collection where he shared the talk with pta about the feelings and visual poetry of the movie....Pta apparently was at that point obsessed with 50's Hollywood musicals like singin in the rain...with the colour and mood stuff...
And as the score was written before the shot was complete...it was as if movie was almost shot to music...jon brion recalls the moment when he told pta.."so this movie is a musical..like old hollywood musical but nobody breaks out on a song and choreographed dance...but there is that sense of heightened drama in everything just like hollywood musicals...So I am saying that Barry eigen jump could mean his heightened sense of fear rather than superman jump...(before barry runs..the bad guys had taken his money..punched him and already gone away in the truck..they even say sth to him..but barry just runs and runs..and that one would obviously not do in real life and jump to get away from bad people in real life but ppl don't break out in songs in real life either...but sometimes the fantasy expresses practical and normal things better due to much freedom to show character's state..in fantasy sorta state...so i think that jump you are so occupied with just maybe an extension to let us know how much barry eigen is scared...how much he wants to get away)So i am saying Pta really had the hollywood musicals and that sorta fantasy to show caharcters state....superman theory may not be the only reason fir that jump...
Also , you left out the godard picture unn femme est unn femme..and it's visual influence..if u havent seen that..it's a godard picture sorta cool and anti cinematic where the director is self aware of making a film...it's cool french wave thing...
So , I think u are missing those influences here too...I am just not believing only Superman was the influence..for the narrative and the character...
Obvioulsy there is parallel with the superman finding strength from love...but always pt anderson characters are deeply troubled individuals who somehow manage to make spot in your heart...just make u empathize or pitiful
Mark wahlberg in boigie nights..
Plainview...freddie quell ...woodcock all are disturbed heroes...at least they are nit john wayne kinda hero..who represent good...
So it just seems to me pta wanted to say love gives purpose..and for that he had to oppose that idea and at last disprove the opposition ..otherwise if he just showed love gives strength and purpose and stuff throughout the movie...it would have been boring preaching movie...but that sense of finding love and strength is in all pta movies...
It's an interesting way to look at pdl but u have left out some big influences in this video...u might be aware of some though...But the superman similarity i guess is only a 5% correct...
At least that jump is not mimicing superman...superman flew when he was sad, angry or in agony, when he was happy with love...or when he was saving something...rarely had superman been afraid and flew to save himself..
But interesting way to look at pdl...
U might have looked this up already but check out jon brion interviews in criterion collection and this link...
www.a2pcinema.com/archive/PDL/influences.htm
Hey Thanks Anish for the details response. Yeah I agree, I became obsessed with this film years ago and tried to dig into all its influences and that website you shared was one of those places. This video isn't anywhere near a fully comprehensive analysis of the film its just pointing out the superman details, which I'm sure PTA wasn't fully intentionally adding, if even at all, but I did find it interesting and a fun idea to share so thats why it focuses just on those elements. I too love this film and I'm endlessly fascinated with film form used to create this film.
@@_MUSTSEEFILMS_ yes...franscis ford coppola said to pta during an interview ...pdl was nothing like he'd ever seen...you should see that if u haven't...it's coppola answering questions about film on questions of pta david o russel and twilights director...
Oh I don't care much about the sound quality, it's about the quality of the fan theory and how you lay it out.... and I love this fan theory man, probably my favorite fan theory on youtube 👍
@@mabusestestament thats awesome to hear. Someone recently sent me the original script for what PDL was before it became PDL, like an early draft of the script and it had some superman references in it, which is very bizarre, thats why this person contacted me and sent me the early script, so you never know.
Also PTA is quoted as saying he was directing this film to create a feeling as if aliens were watching everything that happens, looking on from just outside the frame at all times. That ties in PERFECTLY with the Superman thing. There is no mention of Barry’s parents or otherwise origins beyond the background with the sisters, which as is mentioned in the video is already related to the stars in astrological terms. Superman’s parents are aliens from an Earth perspective. So at first the feeling of something watching from a distance takes on a more paranoid tone, which dissipates as Barry realizes his strength.
Barry's parents are mentioned in the movie. When his sisters are talking about him before he enters the party. "...mom and dad had to take him to the hospital" it's hard to hear because they're all talking at the same time but it's there. I love the theory still and the references are hard to miss.
Superman also changes in a phone booth and Barry is almost always holding a phone or talking no the phone.
Just got done with the movie about 15 minutes ago! Fucking loved your interpretation mate. You have blown my mind. Cheers from India!
Just got to see Punch Drunk Love again in 35mm at the local cinema last night. I've loved this film for years, and it is one of my all time favorites. Led me to look into some story analysis today. Love your Superman insights. What strikes me each time I see the film is the play of light in the film: from extremely dark space and silhouettes to blinding sunlight, often in the same shot, colorful flashes of lensflare, complex moving shadows, a joyful homage to the film medium itself, the play of light through colored transparency. Jon Brion's soundtrack is singular and extraordinary. Thank you for your input!
+Stephen Bushman So jealous you got to see a print of the film, bet that was awesome. I feel in love instantly with the film, a balance between the intimacy and insecurity of Barry Egan and the style, colour, lighting and music in the film!
I first seen this film back in 2004 and had no idea what i just watched, but somehow i still loved the film. After watching this analysis i think you're dead on with everything you've said. This film still continues to amaze me, This is Adam Sandler at his Best!
Yeah its quite the departure for Sandler but it just shows how awesome he can be!!
I saw it in the theatres when it first came out, and literally half the people walked out. While I went a second time and bought it on DVD on the release date. Eh, some people are not very open and appreciative of anything beyond Jurassic World or Transformers.
I just saw the film, and this is an amazing analysis I hadnt even thought about. I noticed how his sisters were weakening him and Lena strengthening himself and his emotional control, but I never thought about all this.
Great job :)
Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video, always happy when people see this film, its such a personal favourite of mine.
I enjoy watching these breakdown of films, because I'm extremely unobservant and just sit and enjoy the film in the moment. I like seeing these analyses from smart people and having all the "a-ha" moments. Thank you ! Now I love this film even more.
EXCEPT that it's POPEYE (the Altman film) that PTA is referencing!! That's the filter to watch the movie through!!! A few obvious bits of evidence: the song "He Needs Me" is actually sung by Olive Oyl in that film and used in this one. Emily Watson is so often in red, like olive oyl, sandler in blue like popeye, and then you've got the stocky villain in Philip Seymour Hoffman. Popeye is the violent super strong hero... but he's a dork until powered by LOVE. This movie is truly a masterpiece for many, many reasons... but I strongly urge everyone to take another look with Popeye in mind, not SUPERMAN.
+Adam Cohen or both? I mean.. I can see PTA wanting to be a little more broad rather than "this is my Altman film" which I hear quite a lot. Darren has some great points here. I'm not so sure about the whole Kryptonite thing but that broken glass plunger next to the "Fortress of Solitude"? That confirmed it for me. Perhaps it was to bring out similarities between the two or to add his own "superhero" on to the list of greats.
I like your Popeye theory way better. I never really liked Superman's personality. That's that, mattress man!
or both
Check out when Barry punches the map on the wall inside his office. When he places his hand on the piano, his knuckles show the word LOVE.
Can you speak any quiter mate?
GR8 B8
+Tom Jones He had trouble with his audio people don't have to be such dicks..
Just a little joke, mate.
Thanks, Glad you liked it. Yeah it was the colours that really started it for me. I love how you can enjoy this movie by itself but finding out little bits about it makes it rewarding on multiple viewings!!
Nobody noticed that his tie's colour changes when he gets on the plane... But I still love the movie, gotta admit, it's superb (and great analysis as well)!
Wow that was mind blowing. The part about the cape really got me! Very great video! Thanks for making this!
After Barry punches the wall, love is written on his knuckles 10:26
Yeah I've been thinking the same
great upload. I love this movie. You may know some of this, you have covered so much.. but I'll mention it anyway.
after Barry breaks the unbreakable plungers, (its a funny/ awkward moment) But as he is in his fortress of solitude having an anxiety attack and trying to calm his nerves by mastering the "organ" which represents his heart/emotions....we see very subtley over his shoulder his co worker trying to break one of the plungers and he cannot break it. Re inforcing the super strength theme. oh you actually caught some of it here..look in the background .....10:32. theres an earlier scene also..
Other things to note..the phone , showing his disconnect or attempt to connect but it always ending up badly...when he finaly confronts matress man he rips the phone from the wall and goes to confront him face to face..
The whole superman theme is a nod to the heros journey Im sure. See Heros journey Joseph cambell
Thanks glad you enjoyed it and sound like a real PDL fan, its such an awesome film, yeah i love the bit where his co-worker is trying to break it but can't, i mention that point and a whole bunch of other little details about the film in my full length commentary to PDL: th-cam.com/video/dMAphMfHayw/w-d-xo.html
Also i love the work of Joseph Campbell, iv got some of his DVDs and been using it alot recently for a little project I'm writing. Thanks for the support!!
This film is recommended by my friend because he thought i'm almost the same as Barry, has a cool exterior and would explode when pushed to the limits (he actually saw me explode). But I guess you can see how when people are pushed to the limits starting from a young age and continues to adulthood. Kept his feelings shut until the day someone comes to his life and gave him meaning to fight. I feel so happy when he screams at his sister for holding out the number to Lena. But there's a lesson here, Do Not Fuck With An Introvert. Great Analysis bro
Mr. Chopstick Thanks man glad you enjoyed it, yeah i think the reason i fell for this film in the first place was because i felt like i was quite like Barry, not so much with the rage but more the feeling of isolation even when being around people and always feeling a little alienated.
The woman in red, in the background as Barry searches for Healthy Choice products, gave me chills. He even looks at her and she walks away. I never noticed that before and this is my favorite movie.
Thanks I'm glad you found it interesting, PDL is one of my favourites too, i recorded a full length commentary mentioning in real time why i love this film and pointing out little details like that, feel free to check it out here:
Punch-Drunk Love (FULL LENGTH FILM COMMENTARY)
I love this analysis! This makes me want to watch the movie again. Its interesting if you rearrange the letters in the name Lena you get: Lane.
+Ryan Steinle I know so many little things like this are so interesting, one of these alone doesn't really mean much but in the context of other supporting evidence it makes for a stronger augment that PTA might have had this in the back burner or was sub-coniously pulling from sources such as superman.
+Darren - MUST SEE FILMS Great video just re-watched the movie a second time and had to watch this video and I was thinking about why barry had trouble with words like "food" to "good" and "back" to "jack" like he'd have trouble talking about things and took a step back as well particularly with females
DUHHHHHH LISTEN TO YOURSELF quickly
Awesome analysis, this is probably one of my favorite PTA movies.
Nice, glad to hear its ranked highly for other people as well, its my favourite of PTA fins, closely followed by There will be blood.
Fantastic analysis. I had a feeling while watching the film that there was a Superman theme, and this confirms it
Woah hey man this is fantastic video breakdown. Keep up the great work please!
Thanks Ryan, its a personal favourite, always happy when this video finds other fans of the film.
You got me...who's got you? I am so impressed by this analysis. I had no idea of this movie, i was listening to a podcast about the movie Magnolia and ended up watching Punch-Drunk Love. I did think superman a few times while watching..but your take is amazing...i will have to check what else you have on this channel. Thank you for a posting this!!!!!
Adam Sandler could be a great dramatic actor.. he should have done more serious roles.
+Abhishek Baruah It's so tragic how things turned out.
+Zombi Pineapple It's his own fault for making those stupid, racist, comedy movies.
Politics had an effect, his support of Israel.
maybe, but choosing to be in goofy movies probably has less of an emotional toll on someone. While his movies mostly suck, they just seem like fun projects between friends. Meanwhile the average actor has to fake cry every day, be constantly in the spotlight, and jump between block busters that don't allow time with their own family.
he's supposedly playing the lead in the new Safdie Brothers film Uncut Gems produced by Scorsese!!!
Masterfully done. I'm convinced
I rewatched it. He's superman.
Anakin Skyboogie lol yep
love your videos buddy. keep on doing your thing, gave me a much greater appreciation for this film
Thanks, always great to hear supportive comments, feel free to make suggestions for future videos.
why are you whispering?
Tbh I prefer that over those who are too over enthusiastic
Your videos are genius! I had no idea any of this was going on in the movie, I've watched all three of your Paul Thomas Anderson videos and they really give a whole new appreciation to the man as a filmmaker. Amazingly well done, looking forward to all your analysis videos.
Thanks man, Those PTA films where an amazing place to start for me and i love those films, but i think my prisoners analysis is probably the best iv done, or my the fountain. Thanks for the supportive feedback!
foleyd87
I'll definitely watch those, thanks.
foleyd87 Looks like the copyright gestapo took your Prisoners video down, which WB shouldn't be able to do under section 107 of the Copyright Act, it's a review.
You can also view all my analysis videos on my vimeo page, including the prisoners analysis. hope this helps.
foleyd87 Ah, I see, cheers.
Hi i recent subscribed to your channel and I have to say that I'm truly impressed by you. You have analysed some of my favorite films such as Drive, Shame, The Place Beyond the Pines and Punch-Drunk Love. Please keep up the great work.
If this is true, then this is one of the deepest films ever. Great analysis.
I would love to see PTA respond to this lol.
Yeah Lances chair breaking still confuses me, even though it makes me laugh, but i think Barry walking into the glass has something to do with transparency, He is so trapped in mental boundaries created in his own mind that he doesn't even realise.
The homage to Kubrick is most felt in using colors to convey a character's mood or circumstance. Think Eyes Wide Shut. You have made another great film analysis Darren!
+1qwasz12 Thanks man, this was actually my first ever analysis video, probably the worst for audio but i still love the film!
Your narration is great
That is amazing!! i have seen this film literally hundreds of times and have never spotted that. great example to support Barry's superhuman strength. Thanks for the great addition.
There is also that scene where the workers test out the unbreakable plungers after barry breaks one and they don't break them
The full screen color effect could have been used to suggest, in a sneaky way, the hero's use of special travel powers; he went from his home/fortress of LA (?) to Utah ( for the "Thats that" confrontation) in five minutes!!
This is supported by his airplane to Hawaii line, that he has never traveled that way before, yet ...
Mate, now that I've seen all your PTA analyses, I'm very impressed. Such unique depth to your interpretations, you never cease to fascinate me! I hope PTA finds these videos because I'm sure he'd appreciate them. I'd love to see your take on Hard Eight, because that's a film I really enjoyed that not many people know or discuss.
Wow! The kryptonite part was fascinating.
Thank you, this is the best movie theory ever!
You can actually see after Barry punches the map at 10:25, then places his hand on the harmonium, that the his knuckles say "LOVE."
Yeah I couldn't read the V because it was turned to the side, but you're right.
Thanks, glad you liked it. Thats amazing you noticed the railing jump too, thats the same point I started to think there was more to the story and led to this video. Thanks for the spelling error also. Iv been working on 'There will be blood' and it should be up in the next 2 weeks, so if you enjoy that film too then keep an eye out for it.
Thanks, glad you liked it, PTA is amazing!
absolutely fantastic analysis, one of your best!
Thanks, glad you liked it, iv watched this movie 100s of times, didn't take long til i started picking up wee ideas.
I love your analysis of Punch so much. Really awesome job.
Look at 10:31 at the hand he uses to punch the wall with the map on it and you'll see the word "LOVE" on his bruised knuckle...
I thought that was cool...
Also, DAMN! This analysis is GOOD...
Mark Kermode regularly raves about Punch Drunk Love and holds it up as an example of why you have to always keep an open mind going into a film, because you never know when you're about to see an actor or director's best work. Like Kermode, I've never been a fan of Adam Sandler movies and with the exception of Click, I've only watched them at friends' houses because they wanted to see them.
But Kermode was at it again recently, promoting this film and encouraging everyone to see it so I decided to give it a go and downloaded it to my iTunes account. I really don't know how I feel about the film itself, but I did feel an empathy towards Barry and I enjoyed Sandler's performance of a lonely, awkward, borderline psychotic and yet nice, well-meaning guy. Emily Watson was a little too perfect but her character worked in the context of the film. There is an undercurrent of desperation, from both of them, in their burgeoning love affair but it plays as quite sweet and I did find myself routing for them.
Some films stick with you for a few days after you watch them. The last one to do this to me was Enemy, the Jake Gyllenhaal doppelgänger tale, which I watched a few weeks ago, and only came to really understand with the help of some TH-cam film analysis. I hadn't at all considered the Superman angle of Punch Drunk Love, but as laid out in this video, there does seem to be a kernel of truth about it - enough to wonder whether it was deliberate on Paul Thomas Anderson's part. Certainly an interesting take and one I will bear in mind when I re-visit the film.
I have quite a large movie collection and Philip Seymour Hoffman has tended to be in the background of it; a member of large ensemble casts in Boogie Nights and Magnolia, a supporting role in Almost Famous and I've never watched Before the Devil Knows You're Dead, despite having had the DVD for years. But I was very impressed by his performance in Doubt, opposite Meryl Streep, which I saw on TV recently, and again here in Punch Drunk Love. I suspect I'm going to add him to my list of actors whose entire body of work I must see (though I might be kind to myself and forego the Mission:Impossible entry, if only on the grounds of appalling use of a colon!), and I equally suspect that the realisation of just how good an actor he was will awaken me to the extent of the talent we lost with his untimely passing.
rocheyb1 Im glad to hear you gave PDL a shot, its a film that i loved instantly but have watched it sooooo many times that my love for it have deepened with each watch, i created a PDL full length commentary at discusses the film in real time and points out why i love and admire the film form in it so much, feel free to listen to that along with the film, its in my iTunes page. Hope this helps. itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/must-see-films/id908138731
Yeah PTA is a genius, im glad you like the videos, keep Im in the middle of creating a new podcast for youtube so that will be out soon, sharing some of my favourite and most meaningful films!
On another youtube video I was watching on Paul Thomas Anderson, this one kid commented on it calling PTA the Stanley Kubrick of our time. I didn't understand why he would have said that until now.
Just a thought could be totallly off but when Barry is about to get on the plane to Hawaii two similar looking and dressed lady's are waiting for him. Maybe a parallel to the shinning's twin sisters down the hallway?
In the scene where Barry punches the map in his office. Was it a coincidence he punched near Kansas?
Thats a really interesting point, makes me think of 'The Wizard of Oz' perhaps a reference to Barry leaving his comfort zone to grow and mature only to return as a happier individual having facing adversity. Never really realised that before, great spot.
foleyd87 The blood on his knuckles also spells the word 'love'.
Yeah i had noticed the same yellow tie and always wondered the change? maybe something to do with Superman getting his power from the sun and when Barry flys he recharges himself and arrives stronger than ever and more certain of his plan for Lena. who knows?
Great vid! I heard that there was a "Barry is Superman" theory, but I've never seen it expressed so well before.
This is one of the most interesting video essays I’ve ever seen
Barry's all blue suit to me seems more like a visual representation of what he is feeling on the inside, and that is loneliness, fear, rage, and even hope after meeting lola. It has been scientifically researched in films that colors help the audience better interpret the mood/ feelings of the characters on screen Even Lola's dress is conveying something to the audience, which is that she is the catalyst Barry has been long waiting for. Lolas Red dress signifies the color of her love and trust.
Lena
This is the best thing I’ve heard since Snowpiercer is a sequel to Willy Wonka
Thanks. Yeah the Lens Flares are usually at a point were 'sparks are flying' between Barry and Lena. Like when they first meet, when they are walking to the bedroom for the first time in Miami and at the end of the film when there love is fully established. Its just an awesome way of PTA showing us that magic is happening during these moments.
This is awesome! Totally subscribing to your channel!
Thanks glad you enjoyed it, feel free to check out more of my analysis videos and suggest your favourite films for analysis.
Thanks, This probably my favourite PTA film and his least watched but my TWBB analysis has been viewed more because of the films success. Im excited for The Master too but i live in the UK so its not out here for a while.
Man, your voice is of great peace
you really give people completely new ways to look at films. You're analysis videos are endlessly fascinating. I was blown away by this. Keep making videos, please!
The one piece if evidence that fully convinced me was the plungers representing the crystal things in the fortress of solitude. Like that's a bit too on the nose for PTA
...I really want Paul Thomas Anderson to respond to this
haha can you imagine if he did, that would be amazing and hilarious too.
@Slevin I would say that Inherent Vice is PTA's Big Lebowski. They both follow perpetually stoned, scruffy dudes thru some very mysterious, bizarre, but hilarious rabbit holes.
I love this analysis.
About the Seven Sisters constellation: I read somewhere a while ago that the Seven Sisters is related to ancient Hawaiian traditions (they have a festival etc.). It might be just a coincidence, but it does seem appropriate that Barry and Lena share a romantic "vacation" in Hawaii :)
In the credits, Georgia is also listed as "Phone Sex Sister" even though she has a name. This could be because she, like Barry's real sisters, is a part of his "kryptonite" and weakness.
LOVE THAT!!!! ties in so well to the theory and makes total sense. THANKS.
i may do it at some point, ill need to watch The Master alot more time to really begin to understand it, i think it will reward multiple viewings.
i took a deep breath b4 i watched this cause i knew i would never see it the same again
TA B Hopefully for the better!! there is so much more going on in this film than just in this video!
Really appreciate ur insight on the pta movies they are so rich and layered. No one paints a picture with color like pta. Im always drawn to look for the meanings in his colors
yeh i really like that. Every time Barry moves out his comfort zone he is met with danger and potential love. really good point about Dean, that supports him having an old piano at his work, maybe representing a lost love in his life.
I have connected the dots!
The Master - Let There Be Light
There Will Be Blood - The Treasure of the Sierra Madre
Punch Drunk Love - Superman
Magnolia - Network
Boogie Nights - Goodfellas
Sydney - Bad Day at Black Rock
Awesome!! I utterly enjoyed your analysis!!
Awesome vid. A couple more color things I noticed: the only one of Barry's in-laws who is nice to him wears a red shirt, and the girl cutting the Mattress Man's hair is wearing green!
Did anyone notice that at some point in the movie (I think it's when Barry punches the wall in his office) when Barry's knuckles are supposed to be hurt from punching, instead of blood, there's something written on them?
see 10:29 (approx.)
It was always at the back of my head that it was very slightly odd that a genius like Anderson would use a joke as simple as the toilet plunger shattering, and watching it with the double-meaning, it fits now. What I want to know now is the meaning behind the even simpler joke of Barry bumping into the glass door (or, for that matter, Lance breaking the chair).
Because it's a comedy.
@@st_orlie Comedies are meant to be funny and those aren't even jokes. They're punchlines without set-ups.
@@BrianMcInnis87 the setup is what you expect to happen. Someone walks towards the door, you expect them to open it - punchline. Someone goes to sit on a chair, you expect them to sit down safely - punchline. These little easy gags just set the tone for the story to be slightly more humourous.
Glad you liked it and yeah your right, this is the first video i ever made and my recording skills weren't great. I wish i could go back and fix this video but ill just have to live with it.
this is some Room 237 shit. Love it
lol Thanks, yeah it takes a little adjustment at first but after you look at it, there is some good supportive evidence.
Except compelling.
@angrykramer- Thanks, Im thinking about doing 'There will be blood', but PDL is a personal fav of mine. I really enjoy Rob Agers work as i love Kubrick.
i may do no country, but both the shining and 2001 have been done, youtube rob ager, his analysis of both films are what got me started on PTA stuff. im also planning on doing Inception soon too.
well alot of people have been asking for Lynch and Malick, i might do a few examples of some short films as well. Im to suggestions if you have a film, thats why i did There will be blood and The Master.
You can't go one video without somehow working Kubrick into it can you? :P That being said, this is fantastic. I saw the film many years ago and I could never explain to me myself why the car crashes... Thank you so much for explaining it!
LinVakare Thanks glad you enjoyed it and it made sense, yeah PTA is such a Kubrick fan that it seems to come up alot.
The one other comment I have for the video, and please don't think I'm trying to disrespect you or anything, but why didn't you go into why PT Anderson used the Superman themes in the film? I guess it pretty much goes without saying that it's suppose to be a comment on how a love and connection with another person is really enough to turn you from an isolated and emotionally lonely person into your own private "Superman". This is especially signaled when Lena literally completes his transformation by becoming his cape. I could go into more depth but it guess it's pretty self explanatory. Did you have a similar or different interpretation as to why he used the Superman ideas? I truly do love this film, it's so idiosyncratic and strangely uplifting, but really thank you so much to opening my eyes to the Superman themes, it really completes how I've interpreted the movie to myself over the years :)
Thanks really glad this video has reached another PDL love, i also love this film and have a real soft spot for it. The reason i think PTA has used these themes to comment on Barry is because Clark Kent is perceived as a human but is really an alien in this world, the way that Barry is isolated and just doesn't seem to fit in or know how to. Barry's journey to superman status for me is one of deep personal growth but almost a realisation of a deep power and strength which has always been within it, plus the emotional weakness of superman's heart is another similar that Barry shares. Im not 100% that all this is intentional but its certainly interesting and thought provoking.
Ahh I like that idea too! After thinking it over I'm pretty sure the Superman themes are very intentional, but I believe the reason PT hasn't really brought it up in interviews is because he doesn't want it to overwhelm the film, cause of course this isn't a cheeky Superman adaptation, he's just channeling the isolation of the character.
Exactly!!! well put, i totally 10% agree with you! Its no so strong that it takes over the film but serves as subtext for the character loneliness and human isolation and ultimately his inner strength through human weakness and love!
nice spot man, its just shows the level of depth and time well spend from PTA. ill watch for those next time i watch the film
cheers man, glad you liked it, i only noticed these things cause i watched this film so many time because i love it.
Thanks, glad you liked it, its definitely a movie that rewards multiple viewings, hope you enjoy it more next time!!
Spectacular work. A friend had told me of the parallels, I'm not sure if he was referring to your video in particular, though. (and a quick audio tip: pick up a pop filter for your mic :) )
Thanks Steve this was my first video from a few years back, had no idea how to record audio, hopefully iv improved over the years.
....therefore his development throughout the story is about finding something that helps him do that, which is Lena for Barry and Lois for Superman.
I like your analysis a lot. It makes sense. My original thought on the film was that it was about Popeye but I think yours is more accurate.
My reasons for thinking Popeye are:
Popeye also wears the same costume everyday. Some of it blue like a Navy sailor. Olive Oyl wore red. The obvious is, of course, the song which drew me into the theory. Barry's sisters are the goons. Popeye is often quite bumbling and gets beat up by Bluto until, he finds his strength in the form of spinach.
Yeah theres definitely some parallels there too, the film has such an cartoonish feel to it too.
Crazily enough there is a song from the Robert Altman Popeye in the film.
I just watched your "There Will Be Blood" analysis and had to see this one...well then, I'd heard the parallels before, but this opened my eyes to the fact that...MAYbe...PDL is a reinterpretation of the Superman mythos. Wow. DEEP. and awesome.
Fantastic analysis foleyd87! I would love to see these analysis videos in the future: No Country For Old Men, The Shining, and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Keep up the great work!
As a sidenote, ever notice how every time Barry meets with Lena that the next day his tie is the color of her dress? Except for in Hawaii, where he had no change of clothes. A little something somebody else picked up on back when the movie came out.
Thanks, yeah iv watched all of Robs work before they got taken down off youtube, now you have to buy from his website, ill probably get 'unseen reflections' and check it out. thanks
Well, I'm totally sold on that theory, and that is not something I thought I'd say when I clicked this video.
Yeah thats a great little touch. 'love hurts'
Have you noticed that the truck that passes at 5m43s is the same one that passes when he collects the piano. The first time it passes really quick - maybe shows his life is chaotic and out of control. The second time its slower - he is more relaxed in in control of his life at that point. I dunno just an idea.
Excellent video anyway. Really looking forward to "The Master" still a while to wait in the UK though.
such suggestions of film, they take so much time to make, that i really have to love a film to spend all that time with it!
Thanks, lad you enjoyed it, more videos coming shortly!
Great film,love it. Love the comparison to Superman, never in the world of thought this.
Thanks!! should hopefully have some more videos coming out this summer!
Thanks man! yeah hopefully going to do more shortly!
i just love this film, i went through a phase of watching it all the time and started picking out liked points and then after some research and more watching i started to notice more and more things.
Wow. This is such an interesting view on the film.
How in the world would you just think, hey, this is Superman lol
thanks I'm glad you enjoyed it, the colours was the main thing i noticed and i went through a phases of watching this everyday for a while and started noticing and read lots of things in it. When i started to look for clues more things just kept popping up.
foleyd87 I see. But I guess it demands some kind of bigger interest in the Superman universe to see that, right? Cause maybe if I was I fan I would've noticed but it never came across my mind at all. Maybe I just didn't think a movie like that, although being a PTA movie, would have that kind of symbolic meaning.
- But thanks for an awesome analysis man, I enjoyed your 'There Will Be Blood' analysis too! I was surprised to have figured out a lot myself in that one, but you gave some very interesting points there as well, that I hadn't noticed.
When and what is your next analysis??
Thanks, yeah I was brought up on the original superman films and batman cartoons so they've always been in the background for me. The jumping scene when Barry is being chased is so weird and out of place it made me want to research this film more and somehow arrived at this video.
Glad you enjoyed the TWBB analysis, its a favourite film of mine and i enjoyed it so much more the more i searched in it.
Im working on an analysis right now, got like 17 pages of text to structure then record into audio and the edit the visuals along with. Don't want to spoil the film yet but its shaping up to be one of the best iv done, very excited to share it, just been pretty time consuming.
this is ridiculous that you picked that out from this film. great job man.
Thanks man, i wen through a phase of just watching this over and over and its brought out so much!
Brilliant analysis.
Thanks, this was a fun video to explore, but I always cringe at how bad the production is, especially the audio, but it was my 1st video. Always learning.