Views on Shakespeares Brave in Scotland: A Cultural Analysis
Views on Shakespeare's 'Brave' in Scotland: A Cultural Analysis
When discussing the film Brave, a mix of opinions emerges from the people of Scotland, ranging from deep offense to enthusiasm. This article delves into the varied perspectives and provides a mirror to Scottish culture through this animated movie.
Perceived Offense and Racism
Nessie, from Scotland, finds the film highly offensive and offensive. They suggest the movie is racist and believes a ban might be necessary due to its portrayal of Scottish culture. To Nessie, the absence of plesiosaurs and a negative representation of Scots, especially their accents, contribute to this sense of offense.
However, other responses offer a contrasting viewpoint. Andy, another Scottish resident, believes the fake and grating accents of Scots were bothersome, but not offensive. Andy notes that many Scots do not find it offensive, but simply annoying.
Amusement and Appreciation
Devon, on the other hand, loved the film and celebrated Billy Connolly's involvement. Devon praises the use of Scottish actors with genuine accents, which they found more appealing than the often criticized American accents in earlier films. While acknowledging that the film was not historically accurate, the portrayal of Scottish actors resonated with them.
Thomas, another Scottish individual, praises the film for its cultural representation. He appreciates the presence of real Scottish actors and the actual Scottish accents, noting a contrast with previous films like Braveheart and Brigadoon. Despite the simultaneous translation needed for English-speaking viewers, Thomas found the film to be funny and entertaining.
Concerns About Representation
Jessic, a non-Scots person who has visited Scotland multiple times, highlights concerns about cultural stereotypes and the language used in the film. While admiring the accurate representation of archery in the movie, Jessica points out that the film may trivialize cultural stereotypes and language, as it is designed to appeal to the masses rather than delve deeply into the cultural nuances of Scotland.
Mark, reflecting on historical Hollywood interpretations, sees value in Disney's effort to create a Scottish film despite potential oversights. Mark finds the film to be a worthwhile endeavor, provided it adheres to public expectations and avoids overly stereotypical portrayals.
Conclusion
The varied reactions to Brave from the Scottish community highlight the complex interplay between cultural identity and global cultural productions. While some find the film offensive or lacking in cultural authenticity, others appreciate it for its genuine portrayal and entertainment value. The debate over cultural representation and authenticity continues to be a significant discussion within the realm of international cinema.