MovieChat Forums > Five Easy Pieces (1970) Discussion > phallic objects used as metaphor

phallic objects used as metaphor


Spoiler.
This is a vague movie. Once the subtext comes into view the movie is a lot easier to explain. These are just observations. I think each viewer should interprete the movie however you want.

This movie begins in an oil field. We see oil derricks, Bobby climbs one. The movie ends in the lumberjack world. We see big logs, Bobby climbs one. I see other phallic objects such as the banana, and the way Elton eats it.

Maybe Bobby is gay. Maybe not. I think it is not that simple. He seems to be on a journey, looking for himself. He is estranged from his father, doesn't like his wimpy brother. For some reason he seems drawn to masculine blue-collar enviroments, the opposite of his family and upbringing.

This movie has a sub-story that is open to many interpretations. The bluntness of the ending helped me make sense of the movie.

please comment nicely

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If he were gay than why would he two-time his wife with those broads from the bowling alley?

Doesn't make sense at all. Sure you could be married to someone for appearance but be unfaithful you are out of free will. To mee he was more of a womanizer than queer.

Ed Powers = Woody Allen

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I agree, Bobby is straight. I think he is seeking something masculine, maybe a father figure. I do not think Bobby is ready to be a father himself.

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