Edward Scissorhands, when conceived and invented,
was no
specific
race, assumed no class distinction, and belonged to no family structure.
The implications of race and ethnicity is discussed in Joanna Lin's
Edweird Scissorhands.
Instead,
Edward was given exceptional talents which he used to sculpt highly
creative objects. He was "born" with the desire for individual
expression. Upon entering the Boggs Family and suburbia,
Edward begins to experience pressures of conformity. Immediately,
changes are made to his appearance and ideas are instilled in his mind in
order to make Edward a "normal" citizen. The issue of the "norm" and its attainment, are
developed through
specific female characterizations and, in general, gender relationships.
Tariq Dahmas gives a
different insight on gender roles in his analysis
of television advertising. By examining the female roles in this film, one
can see clearly the
manifestation of conformist ideals in the community. Women, for
instance, are most aggressive in their interaction with Edward. Peg,
his adopted mother, produces her husband's old clothing to wear over his
patched leather suit. As the local Avon representative, she also attempts
to "suburbanize" his facial appearances by comically applying various
cosmetics products. Men in the community also attempt to impose their
own values on Edward. At a neighborhood barbecue(Karen Schwartz),
Edward earns the
respect of the males by displaying his expertise in hedge sculpting. The
male obligation of lawn maintenance prompts each to invite Edward to
landscape his own lawn, fearful of not meeting the new standards of the
community.Edward's relationship with each gender reveals the
suburban
mentality in which he is placed. Community rituals, as well as taboos,
become defined as the film progresses through each situation. The
necessity to conform to community standards regarding these rituals is of
the utmost priority.
Film Summary | Themes and Interpretations | Female Roles |
Male Roles | Diversity Averse | Final Thoughts |