I watched "The Swan" on Netflix after watching Wes Anderson's short film, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar. What does a swan represent to you?
Thoughts on the Short Film The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) - Clari Says (wordpress.com)According to what I found online, it represents grace, beauty, love, trust, and loyalty. Swans are also associated with inner beauty and self-love. I believe those as well because the swan is white and graceful. I see innocence, love, and beauty. The bird is also quite breathtaking.
But be warned: "The Swan," a short story adaption by Wes Anderson of Roald Dahl's collection of short stories, is substantially different.
The Swan
2023 | Maturity Rating:10+ | 17m | Dramas
Two large, ignorant bullies ruthlessly pursue a small, brilliant boy in this Roald Dahl adaptation from Wes Anderson's collection of four short films.
Starring: Rupert Friend, Ralph Fiennes, Asa Jennings
"The Swan" was inspired by a newspaper account of an actual event which Dahl kept in his "Ideas Book" for thirty years before writing the story in October of 1976.
My Thoughts
The 17-minute "The Swan" short film is part of Wes Anderson's adaptation of Roald Dahl's collection of short stories. It is geared toward older readers and features serious subjects as well as Dahl's distinct flair. It was revealed at the end of the film that "The Swan" was inspired by a newspaper account of an actual event that Dahl kept in his "Ideas Book" for thirty years before composing the narrative in October of 1976.
It's interesting how one thing can become a source of inspiration for another; in Roald Dahl's case, it inspired him to write a short story. And if you read it, especially if you watch Wes Anderson's version, you will be disturbed. The story delves into subjects such as bullying, trauma, and the long-term effects it has on people.
As I watched the short film, it occurred to me how vicious kids, teenagers, and people in general can be. When I was little, I was bullied. This girl and her sidekick would dump my toothbrush, steal my writing tools, or blame me for something I didn't do. I said nothing or informed the teacher. But one day, I simply snapped and said something. Then I ignored them for days, as if they weren't there. Bullying eventually ended.
We don't know what "actual event" motivated Dahl. However, after seeing his narrative, I have the impression that individuals are like swans: lovely, pure, and so on. But someone will always be envious or insecure and try to bring you down. It is entirely up to you whether you allow them or stand up for yourself.
There will be consequences if you let them in. It will drag on, and you will get more upset and annoyed. However, if you speak out now, you may be able to avoid the negative effects of bullying. Because to be honest, that unpleasant feeling is here to stay. But if you take action, you will be able to overcome the obstacles and be yourself.
The combination of Roald Dahl's story and Wes Anderson's style is pretty potent. So far, every film has had an impact on me. I'm truly enjoying viewing the short films. After this, I will watch the next film.
