Friday, January 8, 2010

The Symbolism of Saw I - Birth

I find that the similarities of the opening scene of Saw I and the realities of birth are striking. Adam wakes up in a tub of water and steps into darkness, like a baby moving from the mother and through the birth canal into life. He is overcome by confusion. He cries out for help, as a baby cries out for air. A baby's senses go through an adjustment period. Likewise, Adam can't see anything yet, but can hear Dr. Gordon speaking, answering his questions. He uses a quiet and almost muffled tone, making him difficult to hear. Then, Dr Gordon finds the light switch. The room and it's inhabitants are suddenly forced into the light and everyone can see. The "game" can begin. This is like when the baby's senses are fully working and the infant is now alert and alive. Also, while Dr. Gordon is a medical oncologist, it is ironic that a doctor should be present at the "birth."

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