The contemporary biographical film form of Garth Davis’ Lion (2016) explores the idea that technology brings people together and how it impacts identity. Davis connects Saroo’s story with the audience and also shows the connection Saroo has with both his biological and adopted family, showing the power technology has in bringing people together. Additionally, technology shapes one’s identity through the constant improvement of technology and how it affects life.
Through the medium of film, the idea of technology brings people together is explored through Saroo’s experience of being adopted in Australia, a foreign country, after having struggles of being separated with his biological family back in India. Prior to his move to Australia, he
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After living in Australia for most of his life, he attends a party with lots of Indian food. Although he has Indian heritage, he felt out of place and was unfamiliar with the culture and food, until he saw jalebis, a sweet snack. The jalebis is a symbol of his mum and brother, which bring back memories of Saroo’s life in India. Through the jalebis and the help of his friends, he is introduced to a new website “Google Earth”, which is a vital element in Saroo finding his family and his identity. Google Earth enables Saroo to find his biological family and possibly connect with him, however it results in loss of his current connections. A technique that Davis uses to explore the theme of technology and identity is his use of pacing. Throughout "Lion," we see Saroo become increasingly obsessed with his search for his biological family. At times, this obsession leads him to turn away from his adoptive family, withdraw from his relationships, and become isolated from the world around him. This slow escalation of Saroo's obsession is masterfully captured by Davis through his use of pacing, creating a sense of tension that continues to build throughout the film. However, the support of his adoptive family and his friends allow the bonds of his current relationships to stay