In a Savage Land is a movie that highlights the journey two anthropologists took. While newly-married, the couple travelled to an island in New Guinea with the purposes of studying the behavior of people. Coincidentally, WWII begins. The film explains the events that took place, including Evelyn’s decision to run away from the husband who was using the research to further his academic interests. In a way, the film portrays both genders in a different manner.
Using the couple as an example, the film portrays both genders in different perspectives. The reason the marriage between the two was breaking was because of Philip’s selfish nature. Although the two intended the research to provide the true information about the subculture they were studying, Philip intentionally makes wrong interpretations. This was an attempt of furthering his studies at the expense of Evelyn. On the other hand, the director portrays Evelyn as being determined to achieve success in whatever she did. It is because of this reason that she moved away to a different island to carry out independent research. This perspective is also enhanced by her urge to meet Mick again, although she was married.
There are several anthropological studies that are relevant to date. One of this study is ‘The Chrysanthemum and the Sword’ by Ruth Benedict. Ruth conducted this research at the peak of the Second World War. She carried out important research during WWII in the U.S Office of War Information. Her main role was to get valuable information about the Japanese culture and compare it with the U.S culture. This was essential in helping the U.S understand her enemies.
In studying another culture, one should concentrate on issues that matter (Fink, 2010). For instance, every study should have its objectives which will guide the anthropologist. One should never go beyond this. It is advisable that one should take an objective approach to avoid bias
References
Fink, G. (2010). Stress of war, conflict and disaster. Amsterdam: Elsevier/Academic Press.
