Philadelphia is a 1993 drama film directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. The film tells the story of Andrew Beckett, a successful lawyer who is fired from his firm after being diagnosed with AIDS. Beckett decides to sue his former employer for discrimination and enlists the help of Joe Miller, a homophobic lawyer who initially wants nothing to do with the case.
One of the main themes of the film is the stigmatization and discrimination faced by people living with HIV/AIDS. The film portrays the fear and ignorance surrounding the disease at the time, as well as the prejudice and discrimination that Beckett experiences from his colleagues and the legal system. The film also touches on the issue of homophobia, as Joe Miller initially refuses to take on Beckett's case because of his own biases and prejudices.
Another theme of the film is the power of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Beckett remains determined to fight for his rights and prove his innocence. He is also able to overcome his initial fear and shame about his diagnosis, and becomes an advocate for others living with HIV/AIDS.
Tom Hanks delivers a powerful performance as Andrew Beckett, and his portrayal of a man facing discrimination and illness with dignity and determination is both moving and inspiring. Denzel Washington's portrayal of Joe Miller is also noteworthy, as he convincingly portrays a man struggling with his own biases and prejudices.
Overall, Philadelphia is a poignant and thought-provoking film that tackles important social issues with sensitivity and nuance. Its portrayal of the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV/AIDS, as well as the power of resilience and determination, make it a powerful and memorable film.
"Cathedral" by Raymond Carver is a short story about a man named the narrator who is initially skeptical and uncomfortable about spending the night with his wife's blind friend, Robert. Through their conversations and a shared experience of drawing a cathedral, the narrator learns to look beyond Robert's disability and come to understand and appreciate him as a person.
The narrator initially sees Robert as an inconvenience and a burden, and he resents having to host him in their home. He is also uncomfortable with Robert's blindness, as it is something that he cannot understand or relate to. The narrator's discomfort is evident in his descriptions of Robert and his actions, such as when he refers to him as "the blind man" and avoids physical contact with him.
However, as the two men spend more time together and engage in conversation, the narrator begins to see Robert as a person rather than just a blind man. He becomes interested in Robert's life and experiences, and they bond over their shared love of music. The turning point in their relationship comes when Robert suggests that they draw a cathedral together, with Robert describing the details and the narrator drawing them.
Through this shared experience, the narrator is able to see the world through Robert's eyes and understand his perception of the world. He becomes more empathetic and less judgmental, and his attitudes towards Robert and blindness in general undergo a significant shift. He comes to see Robert as a whole person, rather than just someone who is defined by his disability.
In conclusion, "Cathedral" is a poignant and thought-provoking story that highlights the importance of understanding and empathy. Through the narrator's interactions with Robert, Carver challenges readers to look beyond appearances and to see people for who they are, rather than what they can or cannot do. The story ultimately demonstrates the transformative power of human connection and the value of seeing the world through someone else's eyes.
