MovieChat Forums > The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988) Discussion > DId anyone get more out of this?

DId anyone get more out of this?

posted 13 years ago by Clem_DeFontane
4 replies | jump to latest

Was this movie's purpose just to show us how scary voodoo is? That would be a bummer, but for the life of me, I'm not getting anything else out of this.

I got a "symbolism" vibe toward the end, I guess. When the dictator combusted after Pullman smashed all of his soul jars, it seemed like that could have symbolized an oppressive regime losing its power. So, those in charge are nothing without the fearful submission of those they govern. Or something. But, none of the rest of the movie seemed to be about that.

Did anyone read the book? Maybe its author was able to say more than Wes Craven could with this film.

[–] Stay_away_from_the_Metropol 9 years ago

LOL. You're one of those people that thinks every single piece of media or art needs to have a proposed point or straightforward "purpose" huh? Well, I would say that's your first problem...

If you really need one... First of all, the main point of any media release is to stimulate or entertain... This film does both with flying colors. Beyond that, it could serve as an introduction to the horrific concept and realistic possibility of zombification through the existing chemical tetrodotoxin...

[–] TDeMona 8 years ago

Art isn't there to drive forwards your brainwashing agenda (whatever it might be in your case). So stop being stupid and ruining everything.

--- "Amal shufar, at rrug"

[–] VVolfySnackrib 8 years ago

I thought this movie was a grand adventure! I couldn't believe how freaking nice those savage voodoo people were to Bill Pullman though. First they seem like they're gonna kill him if he doesn't get out of there, but they just nail his dick to a board and send him off on his way. Then he stays. Then they seem like they're really really gonna kill him now! Nah. Just force his dumb white ass on a plane. He flies back. Now they're really gonna mess with him! Nah. He saves the day. Yay!!

[–] toastyryder 8 years ago

I think the movie's purpose was just to deliver a thrilling horror movie. I do agree it exploited stereotypes of voodoo to get there though, but I would hope people realize this is part of the Hollywood fantasy aspect.

And meanwhile on Mushroom Hill this happened https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IlnOiJWUdo