Characterisation in The Fisher King
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In the film The Fisher King directed by Terri Guilliam, the characterisation is extremely important as each character serves as a vehicle of important themes, which contribute to the success of the film. Guilliam develops each character using various film techniques, such as, symbolism, motifs, threnody and character contrast.
An important character, in the film is Jack Lucas. Jack is an egotistical radio DJ, who is single minded in his pursuits for wealth and fame. His being trapped by his desire for material things, and his downfall because of it, are developed in the film to portray the crippling effect of a sole pursuit of wealth and status. The characterisation of Jack draws parallels with the King, in the myth of The Fisher King, who Guilliam explains is in a situation similar to Jack's, "his kingdom goes barren. He's also lost the Grail. It's the one thing that can save him, but he's lost the ability to see and experience it". Jack's lack of understanding for what he is missing out on, is developed through the use of symbolism. In the opening sequence, shadowed bars are cast across the four walls of Jack's radio booth...