great works ii – 2850 jta 12:25-2:05: love letters from the world

Davida:

For my post, I decided to focus on the very first 20 minutes of both the film and the script. From what I witnessed, I can see that the director chose to use the same lines as of those in the play. However, I also noticed that some of the words that were used in the film were a bit changed when used in the play. For instance, Hamm used the word “queer” instead of the original word “strange” from the play. I believe that is because of the time difference. The play was written almost 5 decades before the release of this film. I find that this slight change in language fits even better and is more appropriate to enhance the comprehension of the audience. When factoring in multiple perspectives, the film and the play are one in the same, considering that even the gestured were followed according to Beckett’s script. Due to the fact that both works were carried out identically and replicated flawlessly, the concept and the morals that Beckett wanted to pass on through his script was similarly conveyed through this film.

Fitz:

After reviewing both the script and the film starting from 20 minutes, I believe that both are very similar if not exactly the same. Also, I would like to emphasize the significance of the character Hamm, as he sits in his armchair awaiting his death. Hamm does a profound job in making the play come to life, through his tone, his facial expressions and his gestures. With this, he also brings out Beckett’s original message which is to point out that life is cyclical and that a human’s existence is “always the same thing,” routine, making no difference or mark on anything that is of greater value and power, such as nature. Another feature of Hamm’s that was seen in both the film and the play was his vulnerability while still being in control. In other words, although Hamm is blind and unable to do much on his own and fears that his existence is meaningless, he is still portrayed as the one who controls the rest of the people in the room.