Above is a screenshot from the ‘Pixar in a Box’ series on YouTube, the scene dictates how lack of space can emulate constraint. Mr Incredible, a strong build / symbol of strength character is placed in a small cubicle. Not only is the cubicle insufficient in size for his build, the artists have further restricted his space by placing a massive pillar within it.
This scene is somewhat driven by the audience, which leans into spectatorship. We, as the audience, feel an overwhelming sense of constraint and tightness for the character. Not only is the ratio between the character and his space off kilter, we naturally compare his situation to the other characters adjacent to him, who have a sense of freedom.
Above is a screenshot from ‘Sanjay’s Super Team’, a short film about an Indian boy who idolises American super hero’s and somewhat dislikes his Father’s traditional ways. Set in the USA, it highlights the struggles of embracing culture and traditions within a Western context.
In this particular scene, there are multiple references to consider:
The distance between the two ‘worlds’ showcases disconnect or lack of connection between the two characters, although they are both strategically housed under the same roof.
In terms of body language, the two characters in this scene are deflected from each other, both are immersed in their own worlds – almost uninterested in their surroundings. Note, the Father’s posture: upright on his knees, torso erect and placed majestically on the rug at eye level with the deity. Whereas, the son’s posture is relaxed with his leg lifted, flailing almost as he glares upwards staring in admiration at his ‘deities’. From this, we can somewhat gather that the Father is regimented and govern by tradition. In comparison to his son, who shows his age – a sense of child like freedom and unbothered by structure.
For instance, the generational differences – note, the focus on the glaring television, the bright colours and scattered objects somewhat allude to youth. Whereas, on the other side of the room, it is tidy, subdued in colours and the focus is on tradition / traditional objects.
Footnotes
How space alludes to connectivity between the Western culture and South Asian culture.
Relational tension between cultures, highlights the differences.