M Butterfly

                The movie M Butterfly was based on the play M Butterfly by David Henry Hwang. The movie and the play were captivating in their exploration and linkage of the various problems in society. The movie centered on a Frenchman that fell in love with a Chinese opera singer. However, due to political circumstances and gender issues the love that the Frenchman, Renee, believed to be so real was actually an illusion. Thus, through the portrayal of the characters, Hwang explored the themes of political, gender, ethnicity, and love issues that are controversial in the society today.

                Throughout the film, gender and ethnicity issues were fortified through the character of the “female” Chinese opera singer. In Chinese opera, the female roles are traditionally played by males, however, the very fact that “Butterfly” whom was male was able to pass as a female in such a way that fooled Renee for so long says that Chinese men are androgynous. This brings to light the ethnicity issue that states Asian men are feminine. Also, the fact that once Renee found out that “Butterfly” was male, Renee rejected him because “Butterfly” wasn’t who Renee thought he was. Thus, the issue of the significance of gender in love was portrayed. The fact that once the fact that “Butterfly” was male was revealed, Renee can no longer love “him” like he loved “her.” The reason for the rejection could be rooted in the fact that homosexually was and still is viewed as something unordinary, and is rejected by society.

                Also, in the movie, political stances were illustrated. Through the conversations between Butterfly and Renee the political beliefs of China and France were portrayed. Politically China believes the French and all Westerners to be “foreign devils,” and that China should be independent of foreign influence politically. However, Renee who represents the foreign authorities believes that the Chinese wants to be dominated, and would submit politically if the “West” showed its power and authority.

                The movie of M Butterfly introduced to the audience several issues that are highly debated by society today. Instead of circumventing around the issues, Hwang focused on them, as if to say that nothing will be solved by running away. From this movie, one can see the clash of ideals in society, and as a consequence is forced to face them. Problems cannot be solved by turning away from them, but if examined, solutions can be reached.