Violence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Violence - Essay Example Ironically, both films depend on anticipation, leaving a similar feeling in the viewer as they progress. When viewed from the point of view of several sociological perspectives and discussed for the character portraits and dark humor, a comparison can be made between Pulp Fiction and Dog Day Afternoon. There are two basic forms of violence that can be viewed in a film. The first more obvious form of violence is that of physical violence where a living organism is dealt physical harm. The second less obvious form of violence is that of psychological violence. Psychological violence comes from the allusion to violence or from actions that cause mental harm. Slocum (2001) uses the example of the film Gaslight where a man intends to drive his wife mad. Slocum refers to Freud and says that â€Å"Real violence can have symbolic meaning and symbolic violence can have real consequences† (p. 40). Actions that show an intent toward violence can also create a sense of psychological violence, even thought the act may never actually be fulfilled. psychological violence is apparent in the constant threat that is pervasive throughout the film. The film is a series of character studies as revelations about each character comes through to the viewer in humorous and often shocking moments. The moment that is the most shocking, especially when viewed with the point of view of the sociological dynamics of the 1970’s, is when Leon reveals one of the motivations for the robbery. Leon says: I couldnt explain why I did the things I did. So I went to this psychiatrist who explained to me I was a woman in a mans body. So Sonny right away wanted to get me money for a sex change operation: but where was he to get that? 2500 dollars! My God, hes in hock up to his ears already (IMDB, 2010, Dog Day Afternoon). When viewed from the point of view of