If we imagine that every moment of our lives is being recorded on a camera and broadcasted on TV, it would be quite gruesome. Yet the world has been showing Truman’s life without Truman noticing it, and the viewers of the Truman Show enjoy watching the show. At this point, I realized Truman was not the only one who is victimized. Through the Internet, GPS tracking service, and CCTV, I too could be controlled. Truman was never suspicious of his life until he heard the radio that broadcasted his every movement. On the contrary to his credulous aspects in the movie, the magazine, newspaper and the radio broadcasting are all manipulated; likewise, the media we are exposed to controls and manipulates the thoughts of the public. The movie reveals our world today. Because the advanced technology has become an effectual device for manipulation, we should protect our freedom from the media to think and act by ourselves.
Not only Truman’s behaviors, but also behaviors of other character like Marlon made me ponder over the insincerity of my relationships. Whenever Truman tries to do anything that deviates from the expectation of the director, Marlon is put into the set. He was Truman’s best friend since childhood, but now his role is to soothe him and keep him on track. This made me contemplate about my relationships with my close friends and families. Perhaps everyone around me may not be sincere as I had once thought. Marlon even told Truman, “Would I lie to you?" In our life, there are so many people that deign they are close to us, but Marlon reminds me not to trust anyone with just their words.
When Truman became aware of his fabricated life, he decides to leave the studio. His decision could be seen as an escape, but this action involves bravery and perseverance. Leaving his world called ‘Sea Heaven’, his action inevitably causes him to break all ties with his close families and friends. He will be able to access the vast ocean of new information that he never knew before. His limitless thirst for the unknown world and attempt to widen his perception of life is praiseworthy. We should be very likely to challenge the world break from the state of illusion and unawareness.
Both the setting and the characters contributed to making this movie entertaining. On the other hand, the film gives us some lessons that can help us to cope with various problems we face. The film warns that companies, the media, and even your close friends may deceive you for their greed. In order to endure serious hardships while seeking for the truth, I recommend everyone to be aware of any manipulation and biases in information you are exposed to. Moreover, don’t be afraid to perceive our unawareness.
