In dystopian literature and film, the exploration of "the other" serves as a powerful tool to shed light on the struggles of marginalized individuals, challenging societal norms and humanity's ability to overcome great obstacles. Alfonso Cuaron's film "Children of Men" and Tahereh Mafi's novel "Shatter Me" are prime examples of texts that delve into this exploration, showcasing resilient characters facing isolation and discrimination. These narratives advocate empathy and understanding, emphasizing humanity's capacity to triumph over adversity.
In "Children of Men," marginalized immigrants are portrayed as "the other" in a society grappling with infertility and societal collapse. The film sheds light on Kee, a pregnant immigrant woman, who
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In the film, symbolism is evidently conveyed when Cuaron reveals the significance of Kee" Theo. She's the miracle the world has been waiting for. She's carrying the first baby in 18 years. The last shred of hope in this godforsaken place," emphasising Kee’s significance as a symbol of hope and illuminating the discriminatory environment she navigates, underscoring her profound character. The representation of Kee as "the other" reveals the composer's purpose of highlighting the mistreatment and discrimination faced by marginalized individuals. When Kee gives birth to the ultimate "other," a shift in the narrative is formed due to the transformative structure of the film by symbolizing hope and a potential future for humanity. The child becomes a symbol of renewal and represents a chance to break free from the dystopian world's despair and impending extinction. The cries of the newborn baby ultimately have a profound effect on the individuals who heard and saw the baby. As gunfire and explosions fade, the piercing cries create a stillness, The characters' collective gaze, filled with awe, shock, and hope, is captured in