The 2016 film Nocturnal Animals, directed by Tom Ford, isn't your typical thriller. It's a layered and unsettling masterpiece that interweaves multiple narratives, exploring themes of betrayal, revenge, artistic expression, and the enduring power of trauma. The film's brilliance lies in its masterful juxtaposition of seemingly disparate worlds and its ambiguous ending, leaving the audience to grapple with its complex meanings.
The story unfolds through two primary narratives: the present-day life of Susan Morrow, a wealthy art gallery owner in Los Angeles, and the novel, Nocturnal Animals, written by her ex-husband, Edward Sheffield. These two narratives are intricately intertwined, mirroring and commenting on each other.
Susan's Present: A Life of Superficiality and Regret
Susan lives a seemingly glamorous life, but it's fraught with emptiness. Her marriage to the seemingly superficial Hutton is devoid of genuine connection, mirroring the superficiality of her own life choices. She is haunted by her past relationship with Edward and the choices she made that led to their separation. The novel acts as a catalyst, forcing her to confront these buried feelings and the profound impact her actions had on Edward. Her opulent lifestyle serves as a stark contrast to the brutality and darkness portrayed in Edward's novel.
Edward's Novel: Nocturnal Animals – A Brutal Descent into Darkness
Edward's novel is a violent and disturbing tale of Tony Hastings, a mild-mannered man whose family vacation is violently disrupted by a group of sociopathic criminals. The novel's graphic depiction of violence, trauma, and revenge is deeply unsettling. It's a visceral representation of the pain Edward experienced after their separation and a symbolic reflection of Susan's own emotional landscape.
The novel's narrative structure is deliberately fragmented, mirroring the fragmented nature of Susan's memories and emotional state. The violent acts depicted in the novel serve as a parallel to the violence and trauma that Susan inflicts, both consciously and unconsciously, on those around her and Edward.
What is the meaning of the title "Nocturnal Animals"?
The title, Nocturnal Animals, refers both to the predatory nature of the criminals in Edward's novel and the insidious nature of Susan's own self-destructive tendencies. The nocturnal setting of much of the novel’s action emphasizes the darkness and hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of seemingly peaceful existence. The animals themselves symbolize the raw, primal violence and threat that are ever-present.
How are the two narratives related?
The two narratives are inextricably linked. The novel serves as a brutal allegory for the breakdown of Susan and Edward's relationship and the consequences of Susan's choices. Each scene in the novel mirrors or symbolizes a particular event or feeling from her past. It’s a powerful form of emotional communication that is far more potent and impactful than any direct conversation ever could be. The violence in the novel is a reflection of the emotional violence Susan inflicted on Edward.
What is the significance of the ending?
The ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the interpretation open to the viewer. Did Susan actually leave Hutton and reconcile with her past, or is it all a figment of her imagination? It could be argued the ending is her waking up from a dream or hallucination fueled by regret and guilt. Regardless of the interpretation, the ambiguity underscores the lasting impact of the past on the present and the ongoing struggle with self-reflection and forgiveness.
Is the film a revenge story?
While Nocturnal Animals explores the theme of revenge, it's not solely a revenge story. It's more of an exploration of the devastating consequences of choices, both large and small, and the enduring impact of trauma and betrayal. The film’s strength lies in its exploration of these complex themes and the ambiguity surrounding the ultimate outcome of Susan’s actions.
In conclusion, Nocturnal Animals is a complex and multi-layered film that demands multiple viewings to fully unpack its meaning. Its powerful imagery, ambiguous ending, and exploration of deep-seated emotional turmoil make it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
