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The Theme Of Facing Adversity In Finding Forrester, By Gus Van Sant

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Adversity is always present in society, whether it takes the form of small, everyday problems or life-changing incidents. Whichever form it takes, it is important for individuals to be able to face the problems that they face. If they shy away from every challenge that is placed before them, they will never be able to move forward with their lives. The struggle of learning how to face adversity, and the benefits of doing so are best presented by both the character development and character foil of William Forrester and Jamal Wallace, the two protagonists in “Finding Forrester” by director Gus Van Sant. The film sets out to examine the idea that the ability to confront challenges in life is something that must be learned in order to live life to its full potential, and to be …show more content…

Facing adversity, especially when it has caused pain in the past, is not an easy task. Many push through it and continue on with their lives, but others, like William Forrester, find themselves stuck and unwilling to face the world in fear of being hurt again. Forrester is a Pulitzer Prize winning author who has a dark past that has caused him immense pain. Forrester avoids his pain by locking himself within his apartment, and keeping all of his work within it. While this indeed shelters him from some of his anxiety, he also leaves himself closed off to all of the wonders that life can present. The first step towards breaking this cycle is when Jamal Wallace breaks into Forrester’s apartment through the window. This incident highlights three important symbols within the film. The first is the window, which allows not only light, but hope and change into the apartment. The apartment itself is a representation for Forrester and his life. Finally,

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In the film “Finding Forrester”, the connection of the two main characters, Jamal Wallace and William Forrester's passion for reading and writing shows the readers the development of true friendship between the two. In the film “Finding Forrester”, the connection of the two main characters, Jamal Wallace and William Forrester show the readers the development of their friendships because of their interest in reading and writing. Jamal Wallace is a 16 years old black boy from the Bronx who is talented in writing and enjoys basketball. Jamal discovered to embrace his writing after spending his time with Willaim Forrester. William Forrester, a mysterious Caucasian man in his 70s turns out to be an exceptional author with a top award for his book “Avalon Landing”.

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