This was an interesting way to view a film. I found myself "feeling" the film, then understanding what was happening.
Carol's most distinct feature of her American culture was her lack of conformity to the Spanish ways. Her dress was very much a "Tomboy" and dismissed the feminine feature. Her Dutchboy cut, overalls and hats was a stark contrast to the frills of the native culture. She did dress for church but chose a marine dress for her First Communion, as opposed to the traditional white frock and veil. This was also a way to honor her beloved father.
The dislike of America certainly played a part in her inability to embarrass this new culture. She often preferred to read and stay to herself. Trips to the cemetery were met with boredom, but, remained quietly respectful.
Her rays of sunshine shone in her devotion to her grandfather. He appreciated her strong will and did little to stifle this behavior. She struggled to be happy when she was sent to live with her "aunt" and "uncle". Carol enjoyed playing with the young girl but defied the curfew to return on time and was met with disgust. Her peace was in the arms of grandfather.
The young boy who started out as a thief became her equal when she scuffled to regained her hat from him. She identified with his underdog position in life and together they fought the establishment, especially when they found a way to smuggle letters out to her father.
Carol indeed had to experience alot at a tender age. First, being separated form her father because of the revolution and then being transplanted into her mother's world in Spain. Discovering her dead mother and witnessing the loss of her dear friend as he provided an escape for her father. Her stability certainly should have been shaken but it seemed to just make her stronger. I was glad to she was finally united with her dad and returned to America.
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Intersting points you made. I did have to agree with you on Carol not confroming to the spanish ways and/or culture. She dressed how she wanted to dress and did what she wanted to do regardless of what her superiors said. I don't think she mixed well with her mother's family. She wasn't exactly welcomed with open arms. They seemed very distant from Carol as if not to get too close to her. Maybe they didn't really accept her because she was half American. She was accepted by her Grandfather though and he was there for her when she needed someone.
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