Useful Violence in Movies

Film Review # 103363

This paper discusses the role of useful excessive violence in the films "Natural Born Killers" directed by Oliver Stone and "Seven" directed by David Fincher.

2,315 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2006 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper explains that excessive violence is used in the films "Natural Born Killers" and "Seven" to criticize the flaws of society. The author points out that, as opposed to films that use senseless violence with a killer that is inevitably deemed psychotic, the villains in these films are supported as educators. The paper relates that the protagonist villains in "Natural Born Killers" fight perpetuated myths and tolerances such as the media, which destroys minds. The author explains that, in "Seven", a killer wants to make the world aware of how far society has gone off track by committing murders according to the seven deadly sins, such as gluttony and greed. The paper concludes that violence in movies is meaningful when it conveys an important meaning that would otherwise not be understood without such necessary violence.

From the Paper:

"There are two ways John Doe is supported in this film. One is by Detective Somerset played by Morgan Freeman. Somerset is a wise veteran cop who has lived in this town a very long time. Somerset is the star of the movie and understands and to some extent agrees with John Doe's message. Somerset explains to Mills why he is retiring, "I just don't think I can continue to live in a place that embraces and nurtures apathy as if it was a virtue." During each murder, Somerset realizes each sin and the significance of each killing."

Sample of Sources Used:

Natural Born Killers. Dir. Oliver Stone. Perf. Woody Harrelson, Juliette Lewis, Robert Downey Jr., Tommy Lee Jones, and Tom Sizemore. 1994. DVD. Trimark.
Seven. Dir. David Fincher. Perf. Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt, Kevin Spacey. 1995. DVD. Dolby Digital.