The Meaning

[Wolverine]

I've always thought that the 'meaning' of this movie often goes overlooked. Probably because it's pretty subtle. I think what I read in another post titled Swan Wants Out, touched on this.

This night makes the Warriors open their eyes to what they're lives really are and what their futures really is. Cochise said something like Cyrus was right about one thing, it's all out there for them to steal, and Snow said they just have to figure out whats worth stealing. It's all there for them in life, they just gotta go get it.

I think there is symbolism in the movie to support this too. Such as the sun coming up at the end. I think the fact that the sun is rising and it's a new day, means there is hope for the Warriors, and they are going to turn things around in their lives. The flower thing Swan gives Mercy I think represents their friendship and his newly found acceptance of Mercy. When he tells her he can't stand seeing anything go to waste, it also means he can't stand to see them waste their lives.

So what's your thoughts on the meaning? Happy ending? Sad ending? Your thoughts on any more symbolism? Why do you think Swan accepts Mercy after rejecting her? I don't think those two are romantically linked at the end, they just share a bond.

[CompanyScum]

I've always thought that the 'meaning' of this movie often goes overlooked. Probably because it's pretty subtle. I think what I read in another post titled Swan Wants Out, touched on this.

This night makes the Warriors open their eyes to what they're lives really are and what their futures really is. Cochise said something like Cyrus was right about one thing, it's all out there for them to steal, and Snow said they just have to figure out whats worth stealing. It's all there for them in life, they just gotta go get it.

I think there is symbolism in the movie to support this too. Such as the sun coming up at the end. I think the fact that the sun is rising and it's a new day, means there is hope for the Warriors, and they are going to turn things around in their lives. The flower thing Swan gives Mercy I think represents their friendship and his newly found acceptance of Mercy. When he tells her he can't stand seeing anything go to waste, it also means he can't stand to see them waste their lives.

So what's your thoughts on the meaning? Happy ending? Sad ending? Your thoughts on any more symbolism? Why do you think Swan accepts Mercy after rejecting her? I don't think those two are romantically linked at the end, they just share a bond.

Hey that's pretty interesting, good job.

[emissary]

Very interesting perspecticve! The movie has different levels for the people who are into it like those around here. On the deepest of levels, I've always enjoyed the balance and racial harmony present in this movie. It is an escape from every other urban set movie ever. I don't think about the love-story plot line but I do acknowledge that it's there. I think lessons can be learned from Ajax. Look before you leap!

[GonzoNYC]

Good post, Wolverine. I definitely think the ending is a happy one. However, I do think that Swan and Mercy are romantically linked at the end. I think Mercy, in the beginning, represented everything that was wrong in Swan's life therefore he rejected her. During their time together I think he re-examined Mercy and their relationship. Flowers are obviously romantic symbols so when he hands her the flower I think that seals the deal.

[rembrandt77]

The flower means he has accepted her and also when she smild at him at the end I think seems she has accepted him.

[Wolverine]

Thanks for the replys! These are some good ideas.

That's a really good point Gonzo where Mercy represents everyhing wrong in Swan's life and causing him to re-evaluate his own life. I also think the names of the characters are significant.
-Mercy, meaning "kindness or forgiveness shown to an offender." She forgives Swan for his offensive behavior.
-Or meaning "a welcome event or situation that provides relief or prevents something unpleasant from happening." This, because Mercy helps Swan re-evaluate his own life.

The subway scene, I'm not sure what exactly its meaning it is. It's a unique blend of showing how they're low lives and social outcasts, yet proud and intimidating. I think when Mercy closes her eyes and then when she opens them, the prom kids are gone......is more symbolism. If she doesn't 'open her eyes' to her situation and doesn't do anything, her dreams and future will be gone.

I'm so glad they didn't make a sequel too. With them walking into the sunset, it's a powerful image, and it's better to leave what happened to the imagination.

As always, add in your thoughts. With the name thing.....having trouble with the siginificance of the name swan.

[Wolverine]

And, I also agree with that poster about Ajax. His character is awesome! Even though some don't like his ending, I like it because it does teach a lesson. And I love the fact he goes down swinging.

[Rem]

The best part of the original script was when someone while looking out over the bleakness of Coney Island, said "All we have to do is figure out if it's even worth stealing." The slight difference makes it WAY beter than in the movie.

I imagine that rumbles between gangs woudln't happen all the time, as is evidenced by the game. So all that chaos in one night is like a microcosm of the life they are doomed to if they keep going down that path.