Shocking Cinema

Pulp Fiction - Rape Scene

This film scene can be seen as very shocking, as it is a man being raped, rather than a woman, which stereotypically is what most films depict. This scene, gradually builds up tension, until we see a door, in which we are expecting something more sinister, due to the fact we are aware it is gangsters hiding behind the door. However, we are completely shocked, due to the manipulation and the content we are aware of, such that we expected the man to possibly be taking a beating etc. Also, the use of a man, further shocks us, as we are so used to seeing films showcase violent rape attacks on women, and we are more desensitised as we expect this, thus using a man creates that element of shock. The scene can also be seen as very graphic, whereby we see the man being raped through Butch’s point of view, and are unable to escape what we see, positioned so that we are forced to watch this, unexpected graphical scene. This scene drives an A-central response, as we have no gone through this experience with the victim, moreover we feel sorry for him, but cannot empathise with him, as we have not made a connection with the character, nor can  relate to the experience he has. 

Saving Private Ryan - Opening Scene