Monday, March 26, 2012

She Works Hard For The Money

The Devil Wears Prada as a movie allowed for its viewers to take a look not only into the fashion industry, but also into their own lives. As a viewer we are able to relate to a character based on our lives; whether they are a serial killer or an elementary school teacher and because of this we discover great truths about ourselves and the public. In this blog post I chose to examine the character Miranda Priestly, played by famed actress Meryl Streep.

 

In this movie in particular, Miranda is the picture of hard work causing arrogance in success. Her character, in my opinion, reveals that there is in fact a distinct hierarchy in the work field, specifically the fashion industry. Miranda is introduced in the movie as a cold hearted bitch. In her presence, everyone must basically bow and kiss her feet and everything she asks for must be done when and how she likes it. Incompetence and inability to complete tasks given by Miranda result in  replacement or put downs. An example of this in the movie is a scene where Miranda expresses her disgust in the girls putting on a "run- through" due to them being unprepared, she then turns her attention to, assistant Andy who chuckles because she doesn't realize there are different types of blues and Miranda embarrasses her in front of her colleagues. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LVptO7o4L8) All in all, we as viewers are exposed to Miranda's arrogant powerful nature.

Furthermore, in the work field hierarchy Miranda is top dog; because she is the editor of Runway, what she says goes and all those who work for her must worship her and succumb to her every wish. This reveals to the viewers that those in the highest power at their jobs have the ability to do whatever they wish. On a broader spectrum, it pushes those apart of the public sphere to want to be successful and be top dog in their line of work so they have the ability to do as they wish. Although some, may not abuse their power, as I would say Miranda did, many will find comfort in knowing that they have the greatest deal of power.

In sum, the movie The Devil Wears Prada, specifically through character Miranda Priestly suggests that audience members are shown that they must participate in the public by becoming successful in their line of work in order to maintain power.

2 comments:

  1. Firstly, I always like reading your blog posts because it makes me want to watch the movie! And secondly, I like your analysis of Miranda's character. I think the pull to her character is, like you mentioned, about the power she possesses. This can appeal to those with power, and also those without it, because as the movie progresses we see Miranda soften slightly in a manner that makes her more easy to relate to. I think that softening is what allows us to respect her on a further level, and gain a greater understanding of the social restraints of having a job like hers.

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  2. Power is a discussion for the ages! It is a huge part of what we define as identity and in this movie is a major part of who Miranda is. Well done capturing that whole idea in this post.

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