The Hero's Journey in 'Mission: Impossible III': Ethan's Call to Action

In 'Mission: Impossible III', Ethan Hunt's acceptance of the mission to rescue Lindsey Farris embodies the archetypal hero's journey. This article delves into how the film adheres to Joseph Campbell's influential concept of the hero's journey and further expands this concept through Christopher Vogler's The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers.

Introduction to the Hero's Journey

Joseph Campbell's groundbreaking work, The Hero With a Thousand Faces, introduced the concept of the hero's journey to modern literature and film studies. This monomyth template is a roadmap for understanding the development of a hero through various stages. In 'Mission: Impossible III', Ethan Hunt's personal connection and sense of duty mirror the hero's journey, particularly the stage of the Refusal of the Call.

Personal Connection and Duty

Ethan Hunt accepts the mission to rescue Lindsey Farris due to a deep personal concern, as she is a fellow IMF (International Assessments and Maintenance) agent who has been captured by the arms dealer, Owen Davian. Their relationship is not just a professional one, but a mentor-mentee connection that adds layers to the hero's journey. Garrick Saito's analysis highlights how this connection elevates the emotional stakes for Ethan, making the viewer empathize with him as he faces life-threatening situations. Ethan’s commitment to Lindsey underscores his sense of duty and the risks inherent in his role as an IMF agent.

Refusal of the Call and Emotional Stakes

Conceptualized by Christopher Vogler in his work, the Refusal of the Call is a pivotal stage in the hero's journey. Ethan does not outright refuse the mission, but his decision to decline initially is a manifestation of the Refusal of the Call. Ethan's fiancé, along with their non-romantic personal attachment, plays a significant role in this decision. This introduces a layer of doubt and emotion, which makes Ethan's journey more relatable and compelling.

Domesticity vs. Professional Responsibilities

The opening convenience store scene further reinforces Ethan's transition from domestic life to professional responsibilities. Ethan initially declines When iggs' invitation to join the rescue mission, suggesting a retreat into a more domestic sphere. This scene highlights Ethan's reluctant move back into the dangerous world of the IMF after what may have been a period of personal stability. Such a contrast emphasizes the emotional burden Ethan carries as he prepares to face the dangers ahead.

Mentor-Mentee Relationship

Flashback scenes reveal that Lindsey, as a student, was the first agent Ethan recommended for field work, which underscores their close mentor-mentee relationship. Ethan's pride in Lindsey's accomplishments is evident, and this familiarity makes his willingness to rescue her more poignant. Even after Lindsey's death, Ethan's comments to Luther illustrate his continued commitment to helping others, especially those he has helped in the past.

Conclusion

The hero's journey in 'Mission: Impossible III' is a layered narrative that encapsulates personal connections, emotional stakes, and professional responsibilities. Ethan Hunt's acceptance of the mission to rescue Lindsey Farris is not just a simple call to action; it is a complex interplay of duty, personal loss, and the inherent risks of his role. This analysis demonstrates how the film adheres to and expands upon the classic hero's journey, making it a compelling exploration of the human condition.

Keywords: Hero's Journey, Refusal of the Call, Mentor-Mentee Relationship