While reading Lynch through Shakespeare may seem an unexpected and bizarre strategy, the numerous narrative and thematic similarities between the two texts serve to illuminate Blue Velvet's exploration of the dark side of human life and relationships, particularly with regard to the film's conclusion, and offer a counterpoint to, and elaboration of, the film's existing critical reception. Blue Velvet is nothing less than the cinematic proof of Hamlet's remark that 'There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, / Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.'' (1) However, Kerr fails to go further in recognising the strange applicability of Hamlet, thought to have been written in 1600-1601, to Lynch's 1986 movie. Philip Kerr, in his review of David Lynch's Blue Velvet, comments: 'Shakespeare would have loved this film. The striking parallels between the film and Shakespeare's tragedy are used to elaborate on the existing reception of the film, to support the argument that the film's conclusion is a parodic, rather than happy, ending. The article lays out the narrative and symbolic parallels between the two texts, including their plot similarities, the Oedipal dramas inherent to each, their remarkably similar use of imagery and their respective use of the madonna/whore dichotomy in their treatment of women. To advertise, take a look at WoodenBoat Advertising, or use your Google Adwords account if you want to advertise on the Forum.This article explores David Lynch's controversial 1986 film Blue Velvet, through its unexpected parallels with Shakespeare's Hamlet. Selling/self promotion postings are verboten on the Forum. No need to register unless you would like to participate, although some images will only show if you are registered/logged-in.īefore you can post: click the red register link or the register tab, above, right. You'll find answers to the frequently asked questions as well as basic rules. To get WoodenBoat delivered to your door or computer, mobile device of choice, etc, click WB Subscriptions.Ĭheck out the FAQ.

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