Question 9:
Keyes is depicted a bit differently from the novel in the "Double Indemnity" film. In the film you see a more intimate relationship between Walter and him whereas in the novel they are just close but not in a bromantic way. There are a couple of instances that help emphasize the subtle love triangle that is going on with Walter between Phyllis/Keyes. Evidence like Walter always lighting Keyes' cigar for him, something that would be commonly done by a man to a woman. Also Walter in two instances says that he loves him, and it makes you think if he meant it in a more-than-friends kind of way. The ending of the film has a wounded Walter and Keyes is holding him, he lights Walter's cigar this time, and when Walter tells him that "the guy he was looking for was too close, right across the desk" he responds "closer than that," then Walter tells him that he loves him again. Keyes also states that things between him and his wife didn't work out, and says a few things afterwards that make it seem like relationships in general between him and women just aren't for him. These interesting tidbits of evidence support the assertion of there being a love triangle between Walter and Phyllis/Keyes.
I like your response! It sums up the strangely close relationship Walter has with Keyes. I was starting to believe that Walter/Keyes Had their own thing going on! I believe in the film Noir, Walter values his relationship with Keyes more than his relationship with Phyllis. Which would be the reason to me why He kills her and confesses about everything to Keyes thru the Recording device he uses towards the end. Your response was easy to understand and wasn't too drawn out and boring.
ReplyDeleteThank you Keisha. I too think it's strange how Keyes and Walter's relationship is. Before the teacher pointed out their subtle feelings for each other, I was starting to question the way they interacted with one another and how it seemed very bromantic and strange. Good point I agree with you on that, Walter does seem to end up valuing his relationship with Keyes more than he does Phyllis's. There is more beyond a friendship that the two share, and though that isn't the main focus, the film develops this closer bond between these characters that adds a new dynamic, a new daring perspective and controversial even, that the novel doesn't have. Thank you.
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