The Returned

Question 1

What is the returned an allegory for?

Answer 1

• The returned is an allegory for Immigration within France
• the ‘returned’ metaphorically represent immigrants and the locals of the village represent locals living in France and the way they interact with immigrants
• for eg. The representation of Simone being on ‘the other side of the door’ conveys the theme of rejection, isolation that many immigrants feel living in France, or how Mr Costa reacts violently to Mrs Costa return

Question 2

What is poetic realism?

Answer 2

Poetic realism is a movement in France that gained popularity during the depression in France, often follows cynical, bleak representation of life

Question 3

What was the Frankfurt school?

Answer 3

• believed American pop culture was dangerous, making youths more stupid as the began to surround themselves with low culture
• high culture - classical literature, philosophy, ballet, classic art
• low culture - TV, cinema, house music, games, pop culture

Question 4

How does The Returned remix high and low culture?

Answer 4

• low culture - inclusion of themes that would be seen as distasteful, sex, drinking, drugs and partying
• high culture - explores deeper meanings, grieving, immigration

Question 5

How does The Returned remix high and low culture?

Answer 5

• low culture - inclusion of themes that would be seen as distasteful, sex, drinking, drugs and partying
• high culture - explores deeper meanings, grieving, immigration