The Squid and the Whale
I knew nothing about this film before I saw it. Nothing at all. The opening sequence portrays a family of four playing indoor tennis. The father and the eldest son are divided from the mother and the younger son by a net, which seems to remain a key metaphor for the duration of the film. I have no personal experience in family separation, and this is something I am eternally thankful for. Although it sounds corny and anal, I consider myself blessed that the foundations of my childhood were built on a strong family unit. As I got older, the support became stronger and if I had not been graced with this fortune, things would be extremely different. The Squid and the Whale is about what happens when these foundations crumble. As the characters are introduced piece by piece it is left up to the audience to decide where true happiness lies in accordance with the character’s relationships. The mother of the family is open about her infidelity but desperate to keep the children, while the fathers intentions remain in the shadows until he is caught seducing one of his students. The children, two brothers, deal with their parent’s separation quite differently. The divorce affects their integrity, sexuality and relationships with each other and this is what makes the film so interesting. The quirky eighties back drop in suburban New York makes for plenty of opportunities to tinker. Tennis plays a big role in the film as do Pink Floyd. The film prances between residences in its clingy portrayal, often blurring the line between drama and comedy. Hand held camera direction and confrontational dialogue almost brings ‘Capturing the Friedmans’ to mind.
Copyright Daniel Emmerson 2008 all rights reserved
