When we are talking about themes, I am little surprised that there is not a single mention about the direct reference of this movie to Indian Mythology. Emphasizing before anyone takes offence; mythology is not factual history. Mythology is glorified metaphoric narrative version to capture the emotional states of history. Mythology takes creative freedom to personify different natural phenomenon, psychology concepts and processes.
Mad Max captures this brilliantly of “What could have been” as well as “What can be”. World has seen many droughts, especially Indian peninsula. Water scarcity and survival instincts have driven people do many odd things. It’s much easier to ridicule the choices made rather than understand the situation. 'Mad Max Experience' has built this bridge where it’s easier to empathize with characters and understand their situation.
Mad Max makes direct reference of Trinity Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Vishnu is considered ‘Nurturer’, ‘Preserver of the universe’. The word itself means ‘water droplet’ or ‘raindrop’. Brahma is considered ‘Creator’ and god of Knowledge. He is also the writer and librarian, keeps the four Vedas. Mahesh or Shiva is the ‘Destroyer’ and god of rage. Now, do I even need to mention how these character types are portrayed in Mad Max?
For people, not familiar with Trinity gods, let’s expand a little more. The Man Eater is book keeper, knowledgeable and precise. He defines the stereotype bureaucrat; cold and calculating. Brahma concept is also being knowledgeable, keeper of books (Vedas) and precise architect. His identity again is a typical bureaucrat; indifferent and strategist.
The Bullet Farmer is wild warrior. When in rage, he becomes blind (put a cloth on his eyes) and destroys anyone who comes in his way. Shiva is worshiped as strongest warrior. When Shiva got enraged, he became mad and almost destroyed the entire world.
Immortan Joe is an idealist. He controls water and keeps the life ticking. Vishnu god is linked with prosperity. He is the Preserver or the Protector. He nurtures the life and keeps the balance.
What else can be common between war-boys and Pandits, if not the looks, rules based life, complete faith in rituals, symbolism of power, etc? Damn, how far similarities go!! Brahmin Pandits did all the odd jobs as bureaucrats, be it on the name of the kings or gods.
If Scarcity: Why Having Too Little Means So Much is a logical dissertation or expository thesis on impact of scarcity on our cognitive abilities then Mad Max is precise narrative thesis on the same topic.
The social commentary doesn't end here. It makes bold statement on migration too. Glynn Williams has already articulated it well: "You can't find redemption by running away. You have to go back and fix it."
PS: I am a little concerned about people taking these similarities in negative way. The intent of commentaries and debates (Indian tradition of Shastrartha) is not to hurt people emotionally, however, to drill out the true essence of writer or storyteller. If someone feels emotionally hurt, then get on with it; its a process which people call 'growing up'.
Mad Max captures this brilliantly of “What could have been” as well as “What can be”. World has seen many droughts, especially Indian peninsula. Water scarcity and survival instincts have driven people do many odd things. It’s much easier to ridicule the choices made rather than understand the situation. 'Mad Max Experience' has built this bridge where it’s easier to empathize with characters and understand their situation.
Mad Max makes direct reference of Trinity Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Vishnu is considered ‘Nurturer’, ‘Preserver of the universe’. The word itself means ‘water droplet’ or ‘raindrop’. Brahma is considered ‘Creator’ and god of Knowledge. He is also the writer and librarian, keeps the four Vedas. Mahesh or Shiva is the ‘Destroyer’ and god of rage. Now, do I even need to mention how these character types are portrayed in Mad Max?
For people, not familiar with Trinity gods, let’s expand a little more. The Man Eater is book keeper, knowledgeable and precise. He defines the stereotype bureaucrat; cold and calculating. Brahma concept is also being knowledgeable, keeper of books (Vedas) and precise architect. His identity again is a typical bureaucrat; indifferent and strategist.
The Bullet Farmer is wild warrior. When in rage, he becomes blind (put a cloth on his eyes) and destroys anyone who comes in his way. Shiva is worshiped as strongest warrior. When Shiva got enraged, he became mad and almost destroyed the entire world.
Immortan Joe is an idealist. He controls water and keeps the life ticking. Vishnu god is linked with prosperity. He is the Preserver or the Protector. He nurtures the life and keeps the balance.
What else can be common between war-boys and Pandits, if not the looks, rules based life, complete faith in rituals, symbolism of power, etc? Damn, how far similarities go!! Brahmin Pandits did all the odd jobs as bureaucrats, be it on the name of the kings or gods.
If Scarcity: Why Having Too Little Means So Much is a logical dissertation or expository thesis on impact of scarcity on our cognitive abilities then Mad Max is precise narrative thesis on the same topic.
The social commentary doesn't end here. It makes bold statement on migration too. Glynn Williams has already articulated it well: "You can't find redemption by running away. You have to go back and fix it."
PS: I am a little concerned about people taking these similarities in negative way. The intent of commentaries and debates (Indian tradition of Shastrartha) is not to hurt people emotionally, however, to drill out the true essence of writer or storyteller. If someone feels emotionally hurt, then get on with it; its a process which people call 'growing up'.
