Revisiting a Classic: Reflections on “Scent of a Woman”
Having watched “Scent of a Woman” for the second time, new nuances have emerged. It’s a film that invites reflection and sparks conversation. Few movies can have such lasting appeal.
For many film enthusiasts, movies can serve as powerful sources of wisdom, suggesting that cinema often subtly reflects aspects of our own lives. The truly enduring classics, those that consistently resonate across generations, are often the ones that offer the most profound insights. Films such as Forrest Gump or Shawshank Redemption leave viewers with ideas about the world around them from start to finish.
The movie cover for “Scent of a Woman” featuring Al Pacino and Chris O’Donnell.
Deconstructing a Classic: Beyond Surface-Level Values
The mark of a truly great film lies not just in the values it may explicitly promote, but perhaps far more importantly in the execution of its storytelling, directing vision within practical cinematography.
A scene from the movie; Lt. Col. Frank Slade (Al Pacino) dancing the tango with Donna (Gabrielle Anwar).
Unpacking the Layered Values
Let’s begin by examining the values depicted, which initially seem to provide a straightforward guide for life. Movies are enhanced recreations of actual events in order to entertain audiences by triggering ideas within their minds.
However, the values within many classic films function in a more nuanced and interconnected way. Without understanding this underlying structure, it becomes difficult to draw truly meaningful conclusions. Consider “Scent of a Woman” for example. The Lieutenant Colonel, despite his blindness, possesses an intuitive understanding of the world. As the story progresses, the “authenticity” behind his seemingly blunt or inappropriate behaviors becomes apparent, seemingly aligning with deeper truths and universal values. Emulating such a figure requires understanding the root motivations, not blindly copying behaviors.
Charlie Simms being faced with some difficult discussions at the disciplinary hearing.
The Art of Cinematic Storytelling
Let’s now delve into the film’s narrative techniques, which offer a more profound and subtle roadmap for navigating life’s path. As stated earlier, a film’s enduring greatness isn’t about any particular values the film touches on, but the power in the film’s execution.
The very title, “Scent of a Woman,” can be interpreted as a metaphor, representing the Colonel’s unique understanding of, and approach to, life itself. If he can discern a woman’s character through scent, it suggests that careful attention to observation can unlock life’s most elusive secrets.
Charlie and Frank dressed up fancy for a formal occasion.
This deviates from the trend in many films, where titles neatly and concisely summarize the plot. In “Scent of a Woman,” the accuracy of the Colonel’s “smelling” abilities is inconsistent, highlighting that the act itself is not the main point. It is merely a catalyst, drawing deeper emotions and human connections, making the film more appealing to watch. The director’s perfect choice in unique naming signifies a complete understanding of the core story, emphasizing the hallmark of a true classic.
Classic sports-car scene with our protagonists on the road.
The Mirror of Cinema: Reflection on the Art of Living
Cinema offers a reflection of life, and delivers a multi-layered guidances. By grasping the values conveyed, and how the film’s techniques come together, the understanding of what elevates films into the realm of classics and what is so profoundly impactful begins to take a clearer view. How can each person shape their own lives into a classic? After reading this, I would hope some emotions could now be conjured…