Gilbert Realise's Throughout The Movie example essay topic

574 words Write a 1-2 page essay that explores the paradox that when the film ends, Gilbert is inexactly the same place as when it began, yet he has traveled a long way. What's eating Gilbert Grape is a very simple yet meaningful movie. There is no clear cut message that points out the faults of society and it may be hard to interpret a message because the movie is set around everyday life. However the one thing that is clear, is that Gilbert realise's throughout the movie that his life is going nowhere and he must break the everyday routine. Gilbert sees through the people he calls his friends and realise's that they influence his decisions to stay. He sees how they fill their days with hope and talk of something new and small town gossip to create interest and controversy.

Due to the fact that he has already broken the routine everyday life by looking for a way out, Gilbert will never be in exactly the same place again. During the story Gilbert is reminded of his situation when Arnie repeatedly cries "where not going anywhere". Arnie is basically speaking the words which Gilbert has pressed deep down inside himself and is afraid to admit. Later on in the movie he is reminded directly by Mrs. Carver, after he asked why she chose him out of all the men in Endora. She replies 'because I knew you'd never leave. ' She is telling Gilbert in a very straightforward way that even she believes out of everyone in the town, Gilbert will be the least likely to leave.

Fortunately for Gilbert he uses these observations as inspiration to move on and leave Endora. Gilbert becomes increasingly interested in Becky, a girl he met after her grandmother's motor home breaks down. Becky is the main source of motivation Gilbert has for leavingEndora. She is constantly telling him of the carefree life she has of moving from one town to another and how good it is to not be tied down to your own life.

He is also romantically interested in Becky which is another driving force behind his ambition to leave and follow her lifestyle. Unlike his relationship with Mrs. Carver, Gilbert has a genuine love for Becky which is a sign of his increased maturity and changed attitude towards a relationship. Gradually he becomes interested in the maps he sees on Becky " sw all and the opportunities he can per sue with her. Ultimately it is the death of his mother that is the real reason for his moving on. The mothers passing away, although tragic, is a great burden removed from Gilbert and the Grape family. He no longer has the obligation to stay and look after her and provide for the family.

He is no longer responsible for the family and the work that comes withholding it together. He doesn't have to worry about constant repairs of the house and keeping it a secret from the mother. The family has split up and he is now free to go his own way too. There is no guilt in leaving Endora behind.

Gilbert has traveled a very long way since the beginning of the story. His life has turned completely around for the better and will never be the same again. Gilbert has traveled along way but he is not at the end, rather he has finally reached the beginning.