Popularity Through the Ages.

I have really enjoyed this modern-day adaptation of Othello. It really goes to show how history has a way of repeating itself in that many of the concepts found in Shakespeare are relevant in today’s society. For instance individual’s desire for popularity will never fade. This need for popularity may in turn result in the desire for power and control over the network of people who look up to these individuals. In the movie O this issue of popularity is prominent in the high school setting because Hugo, a senior desires the popularity Odin possesses. Because he is not as well-liked as Odin he is determined to bring about his demise because he is consumed with jealousy and malice. Hugo is jealous of the fact that Odin has athletic abilities, the love of his own father, and the admiration of the students. He wishes to possess these qualities and will do whatever he can in order to rise to popularity. I find myself relating Hugo’s cunning practices to those of politicians. This comment may seem over generalized but I feel as though many politicians are willing to do whatever they can in order to gain popularity even if it requires individuals to “push the envelope.” Clearly these issues are present even today (maybe not AS extreme!) suggesting humanity rarely changes over time which I find to be a remarkable feat.

I am really enjoying this adaptation of Othello because I think it is extremely helpful in my understanding of the play. I also thought the producer found the perfect actors to portray the characters in the original play. It is like a game, drawing similarities between the play and film trying to draw out the producer analysis of the original.