Introduction
The 1983 film “Sugar Cane Alley” looks into the past, which allows one to understand the difficulties of everyday life in the French colony. An uncomplicated plot gives a rather deep insight into the adversities, joys, and problems of black people forced to work on sugar cane plantations. The Martinique residents’ situation was difficult and, in a certain sense, hopeless. Despite this, they tried to have fun during and after work and enjoy the simple joys of life.
Discussion
The themes of enslavement and poverty are closely intertwined with optimism and determination, thus forming the idea of hope for a bright future. The film shows life from the perspective of black plantation workers whose ancestors were forcibly brought there (Palcy, 1983). In other words, the basis of the film’s theme is black people’s suppression, which represents hardship and hopelessness. Almost all village residents, except children, had to work on the sugar cane plantation, receiving a meager salary for this, which they spent to feed their families at least somehow. On the contrary, another film theme is optimism, personified by the main character Jose. He tries to distinguish other values and goals in life, unlike his fellow residents, so he studies hard and later gets the opportunity to move to the capital.
Conclusion
The film “Sugar Cane Alley,” depicting the life of black plantation workers in the smallest details, immerses the viewer in the realities of that time. The movie is permeated with the theme of subjugation and enslavement in the work system for survival. However, even in captivity and poverty, the film’s heroes find something to find comfort in. They entertain each other with little pleasures, such as sugar and jokes, keeping themselves afloat and believing in a better future. The theme of hope and the search for happiness contrasts the bitter slavery to which they all seemed doomed.
Reference
Palcy, E. (1983). Sugar cane alley [Film]. NEF Diffusion, Orca Productions, SU.MA.FA.