Importance of Cinematic Themes

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September 27, 2020
Module 4 – Assignment Three
Understanding the importance of cinematic themes with actual works of art is crucial for a better appreciation of its message. It allows the viewer to critically look at the underlying reason for its conception as well as gain a deeper appreciation of the author’s intent. In this article, the author would like to analyze Goldwyn’s (2008) film entitled Goodbye Solo. This includes an analysis of its plot in line with the societal issues that emerged during those times. Additionally, this would try to understand the main character’s (Solo) struggle in line with the idea of ‘exile’ as discussed in Naficy’s work. All in all, the author of this paper believes that by looking at both the cinematic and thematic contents of the film, it becomes easier to understand its meaning.
Goodbye Solo
Plot
The film entitled Goodbye Solo, revolves around the life of Solo, who is an immigrant Senegalese who works as a cab driver to provide for his family’s needs. Accordingly, in one of his trips, he met William, who is an old White man who seems to be depressed. Although their first acquaintance happened when William asked the driver (Solo) to bring him to Blowing Rock, both of the characters developed their friendship, which would be the main idea of the story.
Naficy’s Exile
Although the main plot of the story would show a particular focus on friendship, a closer look at Solo’s character would show that this represents the idea of an ‘external exile’. According to Naficy, external exile is defined as “individuals or groups who voluntarily or involuntarily have left their country of origin and who maintain an ambivalent relationship with their previous and current places and cultures”. In the story, it was shown how Solo, have already incorporated with Ameri...