Finding My Way: A Personal Reflection of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe"
I got totally immersed into the tapestry of emotions that Benjamin Alire Sáenz wove in the film adaptation of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe". Deep as it paints the universal path of self-discovery, beauty of friendships, and that very human pursuit of identity with so much elegance. Not another film of two lads growing through adolescence; it reflects my life and reminds me of poignant moments that make us who we are.
I could definitely relate to Aristotle's character while I was watching the first scene. Almost mirrors the mess I went through during my early teenage years - his fight against anger and confusion over who he is. The way he appears to search for a way out of the chaos of emotions kept me thinking about myself and the efforts I have made to get a grip on where I am in this world. At times, I was as lonely as Aristotle and frequently thought that no one actually looked beyond the façade to know my process of thought and the depth of feelings. Such an aching reality the movie throws before us-that the story of Aristotle has nothing to do with love or friendship but coming to realize his vulnerability and developing self-worth.
This is an open and free personality that I can only respect and envy. His expressive nature and confidence are as removed from Aristotle as possible, being introverted. However, in this movie, he ends up befriending this introvert, who just so happens to be the shelter for both of them. I went back to my very own friendships when I was little - I discovered in those individuals safe havens in which I grew stronger. The film made me remember the beauty of connections and how friendship can transform a person and discover new parts of themselves. The cinematography added depth to the plot of the movie. Scenes against the bright desert reflected how huge my sentiments could get at times a bit overwhelming yet full of great potential. Rich visuals made every war for the character within me by showing me what makes every elation, some humor, and tears that form every experience-beautiful.
What surprised me most was how it could speak on the issues of identity and cultural heritage.
I can say it somewhat reminds me of my experience about learning, embracing, or finding my culture identity through these two as Aristotle and Dante journey through their backgrounds, Mexican-Americans. It is really a great movie that actually makes me stop and think whether one should like or want what others have felt but, on the contrary, is worth remembering its originality. It makes me love and enjoy my culture but forge my own path, something that resonates deep within me. It goes there, really: "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" is a poignant reminder that one can never possibly know oneself altogether.
I do remember having that hope come alive and the idea that love- within the romantic construct as well as its equal- platonic could heal and could lighten a traveler's road ahead. Emerging from the theatre, my mind persisted on this matter of relationship with oneself; on honesty that requires one's strength to hold and be a oneself. This book and film are so vividly alive in my head, urging me to continue looking at myself and relationships and all the messiness of how beautiful growth can be.
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