Although I had heard about it millions of times, and had millions of chances to see it, I didn’t watch the movie until two days ago. It was a great one; I’m glad I didn’t watch it before, because if I did, it would be nothing but another love story to me. Sad as it is, of course, which makes it different from other love fairytales, it worth far more than tears and fantasies from teenagers who are either deprived of love or craving for it. What I value most about this movie is how the roles in the movie symbolize different classes of people in the real world, and how they deal with relationships to others.
The women living in that town (except for Peg) are the most common species; they exist everywhere in the world, each has their own little life, who are contented with their daily routine but become bored day by day. They seem to care about their neighbors, but all they really care about is their gossips. They form the greatest part of the population which is necessary for the society.
Peg is one of those kind and loving people with principles. They know what they want from life and don’t give up their dreams no matter what. They know how to behave in front of their children, so they always set up good models for them. In fact, that’s probably the way themselves were raised. They are outgoing and well-educated.
Bill, Peg’s husband, Kim and Kevin’s father, is a good mentor. He represents those who give us guidance at certain points of life. Which can be our parents, teachers, or friends.
Edward is a kid with a golden heart. His heavenly species are like angels who accidentally broke their wings and fell to the earthly world. They do everything they can for the good of other people. They have tremendous power but they seldom use it against other people. However, they get hurt easily if they are mistreated. They call all their power to revenge. They don’t know how to communicate with the rest of the world in a “normal” way because they believe in all or none. This species is proved not adapted to the world; they are about to extinguish.
The movie exaggerated, of course. No one will welcome a person home if he dresses up like Edward. It’s a fable. So what is Edward and Kim’s love story doing in this movie? From my perspective, it is the bait the director used to lure his audience into the theatre. All the directors are cheaters, you know. And all the plays are traps. The audience are hostages and only a few of them see what’s under the cover.
