Machuca

The interaction between Gonzales and Pedro was a very interesting one.  They came from two different worlds in which their role models had completely different perspectives on life, yet they were able to form a bond and a friendship that was so intense.  When Gonzales defends Pedro and fights off the bullies at school, Pedro and Gonzales begin their friendship.  Both boys are very aware of the differences in their families and general way of life, but that does not keep them from having fun together and sticking by each other.  It is obvious to each boy that the way they live is very unlike the other, this is easily demonstrated by Gonzales' reaction of disgust and shock about the outhouse that Pedro's family uses and by Pedro's excitement and awe about Gonzales' bountiful wardrobe and his Adidas shoes.  Each boy also feels the line of division of social classes, Gonzales always being called "snob" and Pedro being picked on by Gonzales' sister's boyfriend.  However, it seems in a way that the boys dive into this friendship as a way to also escape their own troubles within their lives.  Gonzales disapproves of his mother's affair, and Pedro comes from a world lacking even the necessities.  The two boys are able to enjoy each other's company and for short periods of time are able forget about the turmoil taking place in their homes and within their societies.   The difference between the rich and the poor in Chile was very obvious.  Gonzales' family represented the "rich", with their nice house, plethora of clothing, and abundance of food.  Pedro's family represented the "poor", with their run-down shack, outhouse, and scarce food and clothing.   I really feel that there are two main messages portrayed in this film.  The first is the demonstration of how extreme and detrimental the divisions in society can be on a country and it's population.  This film shows how severe the tension and turmoil was in Chile.  I also feel that a huge message in this film was the idea that people are capable of being close and having a bond despite how different their lives may be.  Ultimately though, the divide between the social classes in Chile made it dangerously impossible for the two young boys to continue their friendship. Another message in this movie that really touched me was what Father McEnroe preached throughout the entire movie-respect one another.  He was one of my favorite characters.  He worked so hard because he believed so deeply that people should treat others with kindness and respect, regardless of race, social status, intelligence, etc.