Analyzing the Theme in Cast Away

¶ … Cast Away

The movie is creatively directed by Robert Zemeckis. It is based on a play produced by William Boyles Jnr. Tom hunks plays Chuck Noland, and effectively so. He is the unstoppable assertive seeker. He acts in all possible ways to stay at grips with his life. The Island is incomplete, if there are no western culture accoutrements. In his view, the location isn't really a South Seas Paradise; it is a prison. Therefore, he works to reshape the life and seems to succeed. However, his solitary life worries him. He finds it precarious. He is pushed to become foolhardy. He risks his life by trying to escape on a raft. The only motivation for him is hope (Brussat and Brussat). The film is structured as a double escape plot that is split into three; Chuck, when he was a FedEx-employee, his struggles for survival on the island and the United States resolution with Chuck. The plane crash provides a chance for Chuck to run from his busy life. Even though, the crash, like it is expected, is depicted tragically; it allows for the real dramatic adventure to unfold (Ohio.edu).

New Life, Hope

He confides that one day, logic was thrown aside because it was proven wrong. He says that the tide lifted for him and presented a sail. He proudly announces his arrival in Memphis. He says" I have ice in my glass." He regrets losing her again. Kelly isn't with him anymore. Yet he appreciates her company on the island. He says he knows the way forth; to keep breathing. He gives himself some more hope when he says that "tomorrow the sun will rise again" He revisits his luck and quips" who knows what the tide will bring (Woodard).

Loneliness and Community

The movie exemplifies the human need for company and relationship through the avid display of loneliness that Chuck goes through and the ensuing drastic actions that he takes just to be in company and relationship with fellow humans. The part shown just before the rescue of Tom Hunks from the raft, explores the dilemma of whether it is worth risking his life to save Wilson. The only friend he has is a volleyball. This section shows how human nature is interlaced with the need for relationship. It is very touchy (Woodard)..

Wilderness/Journey

It is about finding oneself in the middle of nowhere and the consequent journey to go back home (Woodard). Chuck's surprises on his return to Memphis and the awaited reunion with his love Kelly cannot be disclosed. However, the survivor has discovered a long known secret in spiritual adventure over the centuries. He must deal with the art of giving up the illusion that is control and availing oneself to the present mysteries. In the end, Chuck does not need to know how the future looks like. He actually turns a blind eye on time. He has been apparently set free from the cares of life, thanks to his four-year training streak on the island. He is set for a better life, different from the one moulded by his own ego. Love and wisdom are lined up down his life's path. According to psychologist David Richo's view, believing in the potential people hold to lead a better life, instead of what their frightened egos have designed, forms the basis of hope. It conjures love that is greater than what humans can embrace; the immediate circle of friends, and wisdom that is greater than what the mind can possibly master. He says that hop is a deeply buried secret in humans. It awaits an opportunity to arise when it is needed most. Hope is supposedly a divine gift and immeasurable treasure of great measure (Brussat and Brussat).