The Color Purple: Analysis

An inner journey takes place when an individual experiences events or is involved in relationships which prompt them to review their growth and development. The journey results in a different perspective, or changes values and attitudes. The powerful film, ‘The Color Purple’ (1985) directed by Steven Spielberg explores these concepts and shapes the viewer’s understanding of the inner journey as a process of change. These ideas are also deplicted in Ian Mudie’s poem “My Father Began as a God”, and in the narrative titled “Evolution” by Kathy Helidoniotis. It is clear through these texts that an inner journey can be fraught with obstacles and challenges that test the traveller.
An individual’s inner journey through life is significantly impacted by the relationship that forges with others, weather that is with family or friends. These relationships can be either positive or negative in nature. “The Color Purple “explores the harrowing journey of Celie, who begins as a weak person due to the hands of her father. The film begins with a full shot of a heavily pregnant Celie at the age of fourteen. This shocks the viewer and reveals Celie’s difficult start in life. The accompanying music adds a sinister tone to the scene, suggesting this character has been violated. She is often depicted through the use of low angle shots, which are used to portray her as a victim. It is clear that Celie’s inner journey has been impacted by this negative relationship with her father. Celie’s father offers her to a man named Albert, who appears to be a gentleman. Her father says “She’s ugly but works hard and has been ‘fixed.’” The two men who have the biggest negative impact on Celie decode or determine her future. In her new home she is greeted with abuse from the children. The close-up of her bloody hand print on the rock emphasises the difficulties that lie ahead. Celie’s first night as Albert’s wife, leads to violent unemotional love-making. He treats her like an object, which