Analysis of the film "Shane"

Analysis of the film "Shane"

Introduction

In the genre of western films, the hero plays a key role. In many films the American people have turned their attention to more constructive pursuits, such as battling nature to progress America's future rather than each other. In between this wild country fraught with danger and corruption lies the role of the hero. The hero is usually portrayed as an individual with exceptional skills who through their abilities rids a town of the corrupt elements that lurk from within. In many cases, however, the hero's skills are not enough. His relationship and interaction with the community serves as a marker to determine how successful he will be. In the films Shane and High Noon with heroes have attempted to integrate themselves into their respective communities. This gives them away to identify with the community, giving them incentive to defend their communities from elements which pose as a threat to them.

Analysis of the film "Shane"

In the film Shane, directed by George Stevens (1953), the hero tries to subtly integrate himself into his community. Instead of riding into town, Shane, (Alan Ladd) is perceived through the young and carefree eyes of a child. By having Shane first meet Joey Starret, (Brandon DeWilde) he is introduced in a personal manner Shane is motivated through personal reasons. He desires a life free of controversy and war and hopes to live the life of an average settler. The lifestyle of the Starret family and the other settlers amplifies the notions of a simpler life that Shane finds appealing. It offers a way for Shane to escape his past by working to create a simple yet honest community. Shane does not wish to dominate the existence of the other settlers but join them and collectively work together. It is for this reason he is incensed to defend the community from Ryker (Emile Meyer). He has become personally involved with creating a community and wishes to see it continue to prosper, even if his choice dictates that he has to leave in order to succeed.

Kane (Garry Cooper), in High Noon directed by Fred Zinnemann (1952), is a more extroverted hero than Shane and has greater plans to reform the town than merely just driving out the criminal element. Kane's entry to the film is also much grander. He is a sheriff who cleaned up town, ready ...