How does the film "witness" show the clash between Amish and modern American culture?
The film "witness" directed by Peter Weir, was first released in 1985. Its genre is one of violence and action, tempered by love and an on going struggle against the constraints of two very different worlds. The plot includes Samuel, a small Amish boy, a witness to the brutal murder of a policeman by a corrupt of officer. After the investigation, police officer John Book flees with the Amish and evades the assassination attempts orchestrated by the ring of drug pushing law enforcers. He finds sanctuary within the Amish community. Whilst there, John falls in love with Rachel, who is Samuels mother. Finally the corrupt policemen discover John's hideout and, after a final showdown, are captured and brought to justice. At the last however, John is forced to leave Rachel and they both return to their respective worlds.
The Amish community is a devout Christian religious sect located in various states across the US. Due to their religious convictions, they do not believe in many modern conveniences. As such, they spurn most modern technology in favour of plain homespun clothes and archaic farming techniques. This way of life however, is in direct contrast and, in some cases, conflict with modern America. This is one of the most important film devices used by peter Weir in "Witness" as it adds much needed depth to what is essentially a basic cops and robbers story. With out the highlighted difference between the two cultures, most of Peter Weirs plot would be fundamental flawed and, in more ways than one, irrelevant. The contrast also adds a certain entertainment value as it is amusing to watch a long traffic jam behind a horse and cart. Peter Weirs use of objects in the environment is one of the ways that he creates a clear definition between the Amish and Modern worlds. He uses a very subtle and sophisticated technique, which allows objects from both worlds to appear in the same... [continues]
The film "witness" directed by Peter Weir, was first released in 1985. Its genre is one of violence and action, tempered by love and an on going struggle against the constraints of two very different worlds. The plot includes Samuel, a small Amish boy, a witness to the brutal murder of a policeman by a corrupt of officer. After the investigation, police officer John Book flees with the Amish and evades the assassination attempts orchestrated by the ring of drug pushing law enforcers. He finds sanctuary within the Amish community. Whilst there, John falls in love with Rachel, who is Samuels mother. Finally the corrupt policemen discover John's hideout and, after a final showdown, are captured and brought to justice. At the last however, John is forced to leave Rachel and they both return to their respective worlds.
The Amish community is a devout Christian religious sect located in various states across the US. Due to their religious convictions, they do not believe in many modern conveniences. As such, they spurn most modern technology in favour of plain homespun clothes and archaic farming techniques. This way of life however, is in direct contrast and, in some cases, conflict with modern America. This is one of the most important film devices used by peter Weir in "Witness" as it adds much needed depth to what is essentially a basic cops and robbers story. With out the highlighted difference between the two cultures, most of Peter Weirs plot would be fundamental flawed and, in more ways than one, irrelevant. The contrast also adds a certain entertainment value as it is amusing to watch a long traffic jam behind a horse and cart. Peter Weirs use of objects in the environment is one of the ways that he creates a clear definition between the Amish and Modern worlds. He uses a very subtle and sophisticated technique, which allows objects from both worlds to appear in the same... [continues]
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(2007, 02). How Does the Film "Witness" Show the Clash Between Amish and Modern American Culture?. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 02, 2007, from http://www.studymode.com/essays/Does-Film-Witness-Show-Clash-Between-107164.html
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