Rambo displays a distorted and fictional characterization of "real manhood." This contrived ideology is represented on screen in different and equally effective ways.
In one of the film's early scenes Rambo has been detained by local authorities. Rambo is passively resisting the Sheriff. Irritated by Rambo's disrespect for authority the Sheriff verbally advises Rambo that he will be going to see a judge the next day and the outcome of this meetings can be determined by Rambo's behavior. One line in particular showcases the Sheriff's abusively authoritative attitude. He tells Rambo, "you can impress me by doing exactly what I tell you."
A later scene in the same sequence gives the audience a very visual representation of how the film maker chose to depict "real manhood." While trying to get Rambo ready for his day in court the deputies are advised to clean-up Rambo. Rambo is made to strip naked exposing his vulnerabilities both physically and metaphorically. In this way the deputies and the Sheriff and able to asert their "real manhood", dominating and homo-eroticism over Rambo. This position the Sheriff and the deputies and superiors, able to command and condemn Rambo as they see fit.
As we know from watching the film, Rambo turns the tables.
Wesley,
ReplyDeleteI really liked what you brought up in your response about the "real manhood" that the officers in the shower scene. The way that the officers end up treating Rambo in this scene made me think (since this was my first time watching the film) that Rambo would fight back against the officers, but seeing him in such a submissive position truly shocked me.
The way you said the officers "asserted their real manhood" is a good example to make your point.
-Marina Serna