The Sweet Agony of Becoming: Exploring "Student" in Cinema
Okay, so we’re talking about “student” as a cinematic theme today – not just someone in school, but that whole messy, exhilarating, and often utterly bewildering process of becoming. It's fascinating how many films circle around this idea, whether it's the earnest pursuit of knowledge or the chaotic scramble to figure out who you are in the world. Think about it: adolescence itself is a prolonged period of student-hood, constantly learning, failing, adapting… and occasionally embarrassing yourself spectacularly.
What struck me initially was Julius Cheezer. Now, I know what you’re thinking – talking rodents? But hear me out! Julius's quest for the forbidden cheese isn't just about dairy; it's a metaphor for that youthful drive to prove yourself, even when everyone tells you it's foolish. He's learning (the hard way!) about consequences and the value of listening to those who know better – classic student lessons, really! It’s got this charming naivete that reminds me a little bit of early Miyazaki films, but with a distinctly absurdist edge.
Then there's The TV Program, which I found surprisingly poignant. The underdog story is always appealing, sure, but what resonated was the sheer desperation and creativity born from limited resources. It’s a perfect encapsulation of that feeling you get when you're trying to build something – a project, a relationship, a career – with next to nothing. Anyone who's ever cobbled together a presentation on a shoestring budget or relied on duct tape and ingenuity will see themselves in those characters.
But the "student" experience isn’t always about formal education. Where At Thou? offers a darkly comedic take on the perils of infatuation, which is arguably a crash course in emotional intelligence (or lack thereof). The protagonist's misguided pursuit of love highlights how easily we can delude ourselves when chasing an ideal – another vital lesson learned through experience!
Beyond the comedy and awkwardness, films like Fragments of Us show us that "student" isn’t just about learning facts; it’s about confronting your past. Louis’s journey is a painful but necessary one, forcing him to re-examine his choices and ultimately grow from them. And Dear Black Umich, beautifully illustrates the layered experience of navigating identity within an institution – a constant process of learning, adapting, and advocating for oneself.
Ultimately, these films remind us that being a "student" is less about grades or diplomas and more about embracing vulnerability, accepting failure as part of growth, and constantly questioning what we think we know. It’s a messy, beautiful journey, and one we all embark on in different ways.
What are your thoughts? Any films you'd add to this list that capture the essence of "student" life?
