MovieChat Forums > Cynthia (1947) Discussion > The real subject

The real subject

posted 14 years ago by practicepiano
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It's interesting to me how people seem to focus only on Taylor's character when reviewing or discussing this film (maybe the title pushes them that way, as well).

It seems to me that much of the film is about the parents learning not to be afraid, to value one another and know their potential, despite lost dreams.

The opening is a prelude with a voice-over by Mary Astor's character, and a majority of the scenes involve the parents, with or without Cynthia.

It's not a great film, partly because the villians are overplayed stereotypes, but it's more philosophical than it seems, and is about more than just Cynthia. To me, it's more like Cynthia is part of the big picture, a living embodiment of what the parents' timidity has produced.

[–] TrangPak2 14 years ago

Wonderful post, I agree whole heartily, I think Cynthia dominates the story only because she, being the perceived weaker character proves to be the strongest, while her parents are living on fear and watching their dreams pass before them, Cynthia manages to push pass illness, fear, restriction and creates the life she wants for herself; there is a touch of sadness to the film, especially the end when Cynthia is dashing about making dates etc, I felt sad for the parents; once Cynthia leaves the nest they will ultimately have nothing but a marriage filled with regrets and lost dreams.