The commercial slogan of the biggest power authority in Monstropolis sounds like a common saying that could also be heard in our TV and Radio programmes. And this slogan is not the only odd similarity between our human world and the movieMonsters, Inc.(2001). The movie, one of the latest works developed by Pixar Animation Studios in cooperation with Walt Disney Pictures, is an animated movie for children that sets in a parallel universe, namely a world of monsters: Monstropolis. While this movie was not only extremely successful in the Box office and nominated for an Academy Award in 2002 for Best Animated Feature, there is a lot more to discover beyond its surface. Considering the fact that “Monsters, Inc.” is a movie made for young people, especially for little children (rated TV-G in the US) the film needs to meet some expectations. It is clear that this movie is supposed to be funny, entertaining and suitable for children. At the same time it should be fun for the whole family, not only for the kids, because the parents form the audience that pays for the movie. Additionally, movies for kids are generally expected to fulfil a pedagogical task, as most of Disney’s movies do. There is always the plea for tolerance, equality and kindness in Disney-films, like inMulan, TarzanorThe Beauty and the Beast.The story inMonsters, Inc.however, is set on a much more complex basis than the movies that have been produced by Disney so far. The image of the monster behind closet doors and under the beds of little children - usually rather nightmarish material - is used to create a whole world beyond the scary creatures.
This term paper serves to provide a closer look at how the monster is presented in the movie and how this typology can be compared to the common image or stereotype of a monster as well as providing a re-framing of the concept on the basis of monster theory in literature. There will also be a short discussion of how the characters in the movie are adopting human qualities while creating an everyday-life and whether this device is only applied in entertaining the audience. In a final step, there will be an examination on how this fact influences the story in an inverse manner and thus creates a comical and ironic view on the common concepts of a monster.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The World of Monstropolis
- The Monster in Western Culture
- Monsters, Inc.: A Reframing of the Monster
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the portrayal of monsters in Pixar's "Monsters, Inc.," comparing it to common monster stereotypes and applying monster theory from literature. It explores how the film's characters exhibit human qualities within their daily lives, analyzing whether this is purely for entertainment or influences the narrative. The paper aims to show how "Monsters, Inc." offers an ironic commentary on monster motifs and the entertainment industry's handling of fear.
- The representation of monsters in "Monsters, Inc." compared to established stereotypes.
- The integration of human qualities into the monster characters and its impact on the narrative.
- The film's ironic commentary on the monster motif and the entertainment industry.
- The exploration of fear and the unexpected power of laughter.
- The subversion of traditional monster narratives.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory section sets the stage by discussing the film's commercial success and its seemingly paradoxical nature: a children's movie tackling complex themes. It highlights the film's unique position within the Disney canon and its departure from typical Disney tropes of simple morality tales. It then outlines the paper's objective: to delve into the film's representation of monsters, comparing them to existing stereotypes and exploring the film's broader commentary on fear and the entertainment industry.
The World of Monstropolis: This chapter introduces the fictional world of Monstropolis, a city powered by children's screams. The chapter details the societal structure of Monstropolis, highlighting the dependence on "scream harvesting" and the unexpected fear monsters have of children. It introduces the main characters, Sully and Mike, and their roles within this system. The arrival of Boo, a human child, disrupts the established order and sets the main conflict in motion, forcing the characters to confront their preconceived notions and the ethical implications of their actions. The chapter highlights the unexpected consequences of Boo's laughter, setting the stage for a significant shift in the city's energy source.
The Monster in Western Culture: This section explores the etymology and evolution of the term "monster," tracing its shift from a neutral term to one associated with negativity and fear. It discusses various representations of monsters in literature and film, noting the common association with the "other" – that which is different and therefore frightening. The chapter delves into how the concept of a monster is intrinsically linked to humanity, as the very definition necessitates a comparison to what is considered "normal" or "human." Examples from literature and film illustrate how monsters are often created or demonized due to human actions or societal prejudices. The chapter also touches upon the modern inversion of the term "monster," where it becomes a brand name or a playful descriptor, showcasing the versatility and changing nature of the term.
Monsters, Inc.: A Reframing of the Monster: This chapter analyzes how "Monsters, Inc." challenges traditional monster narratives. It examines the diverse representations of monsters within the film's world, highlighting the absence of racial or class distinctions amongst them. The chapter contrasts the initial presentation of monsters as frightening creatures with their subsequent revealed complexity and capacity for kindness. The film's subversion of expectations is examined, showcasing how the characters, despite their initial monstrous appearances, develop into complex and sympathetic figures. The chapter concludes by exploring the film's ultimate message: the power of laughter and the possibility of positive change, even within a system built on fear.
Keywords
Monster theory, "Monsters, Inc.", fear, laughter, representation, stereotype, human qualities, irony, entertainment industry, children's film, otherness, cultural representations of monsters.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview of "Monsters, Inc."
What is the purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive overview of an academic paper analyzing Pixar's "Monsters, Inc." It includes the table of contents, objectives, key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What are the main themes explored in the paper?
The paper explores the representation of monsters in "Monsters, Inc.", comparing them to established stereotypes. It analyzes how the film integrates human qualities into monster characters and examines the film's ironic commentary on the monster motif and the entertainment industry. It also investigates the unexpected power of laughter and the subversion of traditional monster narratives.
What are the key objectives of the academic paper?
The paper aims to show how "Monsters, Inc." offers an ironic commentary on monster motifs and the entertainment industry's handling of fear. It compares the film's portrayal of monsters to common stereotypes and applies monster theory from literature. It also analyzes whether the human qualities exhibited by the characters are purely for entertainment or influence the narrative.
What are the chapter summaries?
The Introduction sets the stage, highlighting the film's paradoxical nature and its unique position within the Disney canon. The World of Monstropolis introduces the fictional world and its societal structure, focusing on "scream harvesting" and the unexpected fear monsters have of children. The Monster in Western Culture explores the etymology and evolution of the term "monster" and its various representations in literature and film. Finally, Monsters, Inc.: A Reframing of the Monster analyzes how the film challenges traditional monster narratives and explores its ultimate message about the power of laughter and positive change.
What are the keywords associated with this analysis?
The keywords include: Monster theory, "Monsters, Inc.", fear, laughter, representation, stereotype, human qualities, irony, entertainment industry, children's film, otherness, and cultural representations of monsters.
What is the scope of the analysis in this paper?
The analysis focuses specifically on Pixar's "Monsters, Inc.", examining its portrayal of monsters within the context of established monster theory and cultural representations of monsters in literature and film. It uses the film as a case study to explore broader themes of fear, laughter, and the entertainment industry.
What type of audience is this document intended for?
This document is intended for an academic audience, providing a structured and professional overview of the themes and arguments within the academic paper on "Monsters, Inc."
Where can I find the full academic paper?
The full academic paper is not included in this document. This is a preview intended to summarize its contents.
- Citation du texte
- Andrea Schäfer (Auteur), 2006, How To Scare A Monster - The Philosophy of Monsters, Inc., Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/68826
