Levi Strauss 'Binary Opposites'

 

Levi Strauss 'Binary Opposites'

Binary Opposite Theory 

This is a theory suggest that many Media forms such as Movies, Books and TV Shows would always have polar opposites either their characters, goals, background and etc. We see it everyday in films, such as:

Good vs Evil

Weak vs Strong

Rich vs Poor

Young vs Old

These opposites are often used to create conflict and makes the story feel more entertaining and exiting. But on top of that, its used more importantly as a way to communicate meaning. In each example of the opposites, One side would always win, and what side does win might relate to the meaning of what the director is trying to give.

Case Study

Darkest Hours

A Little Backstory

Germany had Blitzkrieg their way through France and now the combined British and French armies in Belgium numbering above 300,000 men are besieged in the area near Dunkirk. The Germans are closing in and their only escape is sea. Winston Churchill became the newly appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain replacing the previous Neville Chamberlain. The British Parliament was still divided on what to do in Europe, whether they want to negotiate or fight? Winston Churchill is under pressure to go to peace terms with Hitler, But what ever the cost maybe,  He would fight back and defend Great Britain. 

Some Opposites

Pacifist vs Violence: Arguably the main plot of this movie is centered around this idea. Winston Churchill a man of His Country willing to do whatever it is that is necessary to defend His Nation even if it means War. On the other side the some some believe that in order to prevent a disaster much like World War 1, its better to back off and settle for peace. But in the end, Violence prevails. Britain would stay in War with Germans despite of their setback in France and they wouldn't settle for anything besides a victory. This tells us the audience, that giving in is never always the answer. To prevent disaster often requires action and not just political negotiations, You cant stop a Tyrant by giving them what they want.

With the People vs Without the People Winston Churchill unlike many politicians at the time, is willing to go to the people and ask for their opinions. This is very Uncharacteristic, most politicians make decisions based on what they think is best and sometimes its not. I don't know too much about Winston Churchill and His history of being a Prime Minister . But I do know that, what makes a good leader is one who listens to advice, especially to the people they rule. And This fact does play a role in the movie, as unlike some people in the parliament, The vast majority of the British People was Pro War and therefore supportive in Winston Churchill's efforts. This tells us that without the people, someone in power wouldn't be as powerful.