In the gigantic realm of literature and cinema, the representation of character

In the gigantic realm of literature and cinema, the representation of characters grappling with formidable challenges and adversities has long served as a conduit for exploring the depths of human resilience and the transformative potential rooted within the human spirit. Within the intricately woven narratives of Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Gods of Jade and Shadow, Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople, and Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the thematic significance of obstacles emerges as an emotional thread, intricately connecting the life changing journeys of the protagonists. As each character confronts a unique set of problems, ranging from social constraints and family conflicts to mystical trials and physical hardships, the narrative unfolds to reveal the profound ways in which these obstacles serve as catalysts for transformative growth, revealing the determined resilience and untapped potential dwelling within the human experience.
The portrayal of adversity in the assigned works resonates strongly in the transformative journey of the protagonists. In Gods of Jade and Shadow, Casiopea Tun’s evolution from a restrained individual within the confines of her traditional Mexican family to a resolute adventurer is representative of the transformative power of challenges. One Example of this is that Casiopea tends to worry about how other strangers portray her, but in Mexico City after leaving the hairdresser, she is worried that people on the street she is walking by will mock and point at her due to how short her hair is. Toward the end of the chapter, she realizes that people didn’t say anything about her appearance and due to this a form of confidence is seen in her “Mexico City was too busy to notice a young, provincial girl with her black hair cut short. She gave a beggar a smile and asked a woman for directions and neither person seemed shocked by her appearance.” (Moreno-Garcia 131). Similarly, in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Ricky Baker’s rebellious nature finds an avenue for growth as he confronts the rugged wilderness of New Zealand and grapples with the difficulties of human relationships. Ricky, who initially resists the idea of bonding with Uncle Hector, slowly develops a deep and genuine connection with him during their adventure in the wilderness. Despite their initial friction and unwillingness to accept each other, the shared experiences of survival and evasion in the wilderness fostered a bond of mutual understanding and respect between the two. For example, when they both referred to each other as wilderpeople, “There’s a reward for your capture. How much? 10 grand. Tell us when it gets to 20. And when they ask who did this, tell them it was the Wilderpeople. The What-er-people? The Wilderpeople.” (Hunt for the Wilderpeople 31). Additionally, the characters in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, particularly Jen Yu, undergo a spiritual and emotional evolution as they navigate the intricate web of love, honor, and destiny within the ancient Chinese setting. Jen Yu’s character is portrayed grappling with the expectations imposed by her social status and the desire to break free from the confines of tradition. One notable instance is when Jen, despite her prestigious social status and the expectations placed upon her, becomes entangled in a forbidden romance with Lo, a skilled and charismatic outlaw. Initially torn between her duties and her affection for Lo, Jen grapples with conflicting emotions and societal pressures that constrain her from freely expressing her love. As the narrative progresses, Jen’s defiance against societal norms becomes increasingly pronounced, culminating in her daring decision to escape the confines of her predetermined fate and pursue a life of independence with Lo. One example of this is when Jen tells Lo to take her comb and once, they finally reunite to be together to give the comb back to her “Keep it safe. Return it to me when we are together again.” (Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon 46). These characters, initially bound by their respective limitations, are propelled into transformative arcs as they navigate through distinct obstacles, ultimately emerging as embodiments of resilience and self-discovery. Through their diverse experiences, the creators underscore the universal nature of human resilience, emphasizing the transformative potential inherent in navigating and overcoming life’s adversities.
The transformative impact of obstacles is further exemplified in the diverse experiences of the characters across the three works. In Gods of Jade and Shadow, Casiopea’s encounter with the Mayan god of death acts as a catalyst for her evolution, as she accompanies the god of death on a journey to reclaim his throne, Casiopea is forced to confront her deepest fears and summon the courage to navigate the treacherous paths laid out before her. Through her trials, including facing malevolent adversaries and enduring perilous obstacles, Casiopea’s dormant resilience is awakened, leading her to embrace her inner strength and fortitude. Her transformation from a timid and restricted young woman to a courageous adventurer capable of facing death itself. An example of this is when Casiopea decides to go through with the contest even though she knows there’s a possibility she can die at the end if she doesn’t win, “I can’t protect you in Xibalba”, he said, his voice anguished. How can I let you go there? Would I have a chance? She asked, “A real chance?” I can’t assure victory. The Black Road is dangerous. You’ll be alone, you may feel lost.” (Moreno-Garcia 285). While in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Ricky’s resilience is tested as he confronts the forces of nature and societal constraints. Ricky, along with his uncle Hector, becomes lost in the vast New Zealand wilderness. They find themselves ill-equipped to deal with the harsh conditions and lack of provisions, forcing Ricky to step out of his comfort zone and face the challenges of survival in the untamed environment. As they navigate the wilderness, they encounter difficulties such as finding food and shelter, enduring the elements. An example of this is when Ricky had to go hunt for food because Uncle Hector fractured his foot and was unable to walk, so Ricky volunteers to go hunt for food for both of them “Where are you going? Hunting. Like hell. You can thank me later. Tupac! TUPAC BARKS Yeah, yeah. Did you get any food? What the hell is that? Salad. What? I’d like to see you do any better.” (Hunt for the Wilderpeople 14). Even though Ricky didn’t do so well hunting he went out of comfort zone to get food for Uncle Hector and himself. Also, in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the character Jen Yu grapples with the expectations imposed by her social status as an aristocratic woman, leading to a significant internal conflict. One example of this occurs during her pursuit of the legendary Green Destiny sword, a symbol of power and prestige. Jen’s desire to prove herself and demonstrate her martial prowess clashes with the expectations placed upon her as an aristocratic woman, controlled by social norms that dictate her behavior. A good example of this is when Jen is talking to the Jade fox after returning the Green Destiny Sword “JEN: Why are you still here? You killed a policeman. You should leave! You’ll bring ruin on my whole family. FOX: They wouldn’t have found me if you hadn’t stolen the sword. Like a little girl, you thought stealing would be fun? You, too, are responsible for that death.” (Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon 35). As these characters navigate through their trials and problems, the creators adeptly convey the significance of resilience and transformation, highlighting the profound impact of overcoming obstacles in shaping the course of one’s personal journey and self-realization.