Blog 2

The “Scent of Green Papaya” was a layered film that definitely brought up many issues related to the Vietnam War. The fact that it was a French film in Vietnamese was an interesting and symbolic piece in itself. I think this shows the from the beginning the French view of the Vietnam war and its effects on the Vietnamese people. Even though the war was not directly mentioned in the film, the consequences of it were. Curfews were mentioned and air raids were heard. During the time that the French were still in control of Vietnam, the beginning of the movie, the tone was prosperous and welcoming. Mui was seen as another daughter, an even though classified as a servant, experienced much affection from the family. The film begins to turn when the father of the house dies, leaving the family to struggle on their own. The shift forward in time in the movie symbolizes the shift of American oppression in Vietnam. Mui must go to work for another man and leaves behind the bond with a women aged by grief. Throughout the movie, Mui appreciates the simple beauties of nature around her and is especially fascinated by the green papaya’s seeds. She adds one seed to the meal despite its culinary usefulness. I feel this was a significant part to the meaning of the film. This seed in this prized sugary fruit staple was often discarded as were the common citizens of Vietnam by the Americans. Mui was quietly sheltered in many ways although she still held a pride for her work and curiosity for the beauty of the world around her. Same as the Vietnamese people united and took pride for their country in the war, despite being sheltered to the overall effect.