A nation is a concept that differs on a universal scale. The celebrated films, Under the Same Moon and The Hunger Games, dive into the notion of “…an imagined community that is both sovereign and limited.” (Anderson 103) Both films portray a nation as a community with a durable tie of pedigree and an indestructible sense of nationalism. Patricia Riggen, director of Under the Same Moon, and Francis Lawrence, director of The Hunger Games, incorporate allusive rhetoric and symbols to correspond with various ideologies of allegiance.
Under the Same Moon elucidates numerous ideals revolving around work ethic and family. Passion, ambition, and drive create a compelling character animated through both Carlitos and Rosario. Being told from the point of view of the immigrants fabricates an ideology that is rarely disclosed. One of the only caucasian characters, Señora McKenzie, is portrayed as discriminatory and ignorant, having no appreciation for Rosario’s ardent effort. Her depiction constitutes far beyond what is visibly shown on screen, representing the harsh persona of the entire caucasian race towards latinos.
Another paramount ideology is associated with the concept of immigration. The act should be viewed and handled as a welcoming opportunity for opulence, rather than bombarded with violence. Vivid images and scenes reinforce this principle, such as the IRS attacking the hard working men and Carlitos in the tomato fields. They are seen as the genuine perpetrators of malice, representing the so-called most welcoming and influential nation in the world.
The mistreatment from Americans clearly separates the cultural, moral, and geographical boundaries of both ethnicities. “borders provide space with meaning by carving it up and signifying, both materially and discursively, zones of demarcation between inside and outside, one side of the border and the other” (Rowe 216). Throughout many situations of toil and injustice, the family bond of Carlitos and Rosario, the binding of the entire latino community, and the devoted love for a nation prevails over all.
The Hunger Games tackles social and political constructs on a tolerant level of reality. The outstanding ideology depicts the evident consequences of complete dictatorship, resulting in imminent chaos. President Snow embodies this ideal with aptitude and force, utilizing absolute supremacy and tyranny. He finds amusement within the violence of the games, and has an endless craving for the inhumane entertainment. By seeking pleasure within this lucrative system, he emphasizes the patent economic and social differences between districts. The importance of a strong communal bond leading to success and safety is ultimately stressed in this film.
Katniss’s entire focus is centered around the well being of her family, even if personal sacrifices are necessary. As the games unfold and the participants begin to realize the gruesome intentions, the districts collaborate by creating powerful allies. The union of Katniss and Rue, and the league of Thresh, Peeta, and Katniss combined reaches new levels of accomplishment and ability. This reinforces the prominent foundation of necessary civility and cooperation. Hegemony within the Capitol and the wealthy upper districts famously illuminates the ideal of the “self” and the “other”.
Francis Lawrence incorporates lavish decor and an ornamental stature of the upper class to drastically juxtapose the setting of the lower districts. The grandiose feasts represents sins of gluttony pertaining to both wealth and material, bringing the hunger within the games to a new elevation. Seen on both ends of the spectrum, the members of the Capitol and combatting districts are individually loyal and devoted to their comrades. This creates multiple glimpses of nationalism on a micro scale, while maintaining the ideal of pluralistic ignorance.
The Hunger Games and Under the Same Moon represent the concept of a nation in individual yet complementing ways. While enforcing the notion of the “self” versus the “other”, the underlying message remains constant; a communal affinity will always reign.
