Many viewers will remember several motion pictures that were titled “Misunderstood”. There are many examples below. Select any of the titles and let me know which, if any, you want me to explain further, and if I’ve overlooked anything, please indicate what.
1. Misunderstood (1984)
Director: Jerry Schatzberg
Cast: Gene Hackman, Henry Thomas, Huckleberry Fox
Genre: Drama
Storyline:
This highly emotional drama features a young boy, Andrew, and his alienated father, Ned (Gene Hackman), whose mother has passed away, and whose desire to be accepted by his father is frequently misconstrued. It’s about loss, communication, and any teenage boy’s quest for understanding from his father.
Cultural Context:
This is a remake of the 1966 Italian film Incompreso, which also catered to the weaknesses of being a single parent and the shortcomings of family communication.
2. Misunderstood (2014) (Incompresa)
Director: Asia Argento
Starring: Giulia Salerno, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Gabriel Garko
Genre: Drama
Plot:
The film is set in the eighties and revolves around 9-year-old Aria whose parents, a self-centered father and his abandoned mother, always have a conflict. Aria is able to deal with her messed-up home situation and family, which appears to be normal yet chaotic for her. The animatic feature of the life of an ordinary child by Asia Argento, the director of the film, is quite appealing as children are often isolated from their surroundings.
Cultural Significance:
The film, Misunderstood, received positive reception owing to the realistic depiction of childhood trauma and the distinguished director’s eye for detail and style. The film was screened at the Cannes Film Festival as part of Un Certain Regard competition.
3. Misunderstood (1966) (Incompreso)
Director: Luigi Comencini
Starring: Anthony Quayle, Stefano Colagrande, Simone Giannozzi
Genre: Drama
Plot:
A widowed father attempts to bond and communicate to his estranged sons Andrew and Milo, after their mother has died. Young Andew constantly seeks validation and affection from his father; while older son Milo has a lot of the burden of responsibility put on his shoulders. The tension in the household mounts, as the father and sons attempt to adapt to their new situation and deal with each other’s misunderstandings.
Relation to Sacred Space:
This film is about family relationships and is credited with being art of Italian cinema. In its portrayal of family bonds, it continues to be relevant thanks to touching narratives and appealing performances.