Why Wasn't Cole Scared of Dr. Malcolm in the Movie?

In the intense and haunting movie, Cole's lack of fear towards Dr. Malcolm is a pivotal moment in the narrative. This phenomenon can be dissected through the concepts of understanding, familiarity, and desperation for help.

Understanding and Trust

Throughout the film, Cole is a child living with the torment of a tragic past. He sees people who have passed away, experiencing the trauma of these spirits every day. When he meets Dr. Crowe, he encounters a figure who is deeply empathetic and attempts to grasp his experiences. Dr. Crowe's listening and understanding create a sense of trust between them. This trust forms the foundation of Cole's willingness to open up, contrasting his previous fear and mistrust.

Familiarity with Fear

Cole is already accustomed to encountering frightening and unsettling situations because of his unique ability to see spirits. In comparison, Dr. Crowe, who is alive and genuinely kind, does not elicit the same level of fear. The wounds of the spirits, often grotesque and unsettling, are more terrifying than Dr. Crowe's. However, Dr. Crowe died peacefully and with a calm demeanor, which sets him apart and makes him less terrifying to Cole.

Desperation for Help

Cole is desperate for guidance and understanding. His need for someone who can help him make sense of what he sees compels him to engage with Dr. Crowe. In his interactions with other spirits, Cole is often met with hostility and deception. Dr. Crowe, on the other hand, is persistent in trying to connect and help. This persistence, combined with his reassuring demeanor, allows Cole to see Dr. Crowe as potentially helpful rather than a source of fear.

When Dr. Malcolm first appears, he is visibly wounded, which Cole, in his imagination, sees as a violent image. However, as the story unfolds, Cole finds that Dr. Malcolm is no different from other spirits in their physical state. Despite the apparent severity of his wounds, the calmer and more peaceful nature of Dr. Malcolm's approach makes him less frightening. Furthermore, Dr. Malcolm's persistence in trying to help and understand Cole gradually changes Cole's perception of him. Even though Dr. Malcolm had initially been bloodied, Cole's fear was tempered by the contrast with his previous encounters with hostile spirits.

Dr. Malcolm's approach is marked by a desire to provide comfort and a sense of normalcy. He communicates in a manner that is not aggressive or threatening, which helps Cole relax. Dr. Malcolm's demeanor is a stark contrast to the spirits he encounters, who are often angry, and violent. This familiarity with someone who can be genuinely caring and helpful makes Dr. Malcolm a welcome figure in Cole's turbulent life.

Over time, Cole's initial fear of Dr. Malcolm diminishes as he begins to see him as a figure who can provide understanding and help. This shift in perception is a critical plot point in the movie, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in overcoming trauma.

Conclusion

Cole's lack of fear towards Dr. Malcolm in the movie is rooted in a combination of trust, familiarity, and the overwhelming need for help. Dr. Crowe, unlike other spirits and figures in Cole's life, provides a source of comfort and understanding, making him a significant and important figure in the narrative.

Additional Insights

In the initial stages of the film, Cole is indeed frightened of Dr. Malcolm, especially when he first appears bloodied up. However, Dr. Crowe's persistence, combined with his calm and reassuring demeanor, gradually helps Cole see him as different from the threatening spirits he encounters. The evolution of Cole's perception of Dr. Malcolm is a testament to the power of empathy and understanding in overcoming fear and trauma.

Through Cole's journey, we also see the impact of a caring and empathetic figure on a child's mindset and emotional well-being. This aspect of the film serves as a valuable insight into how support and understanding can mitigate the effects of trauma and promote healing.