Introduction to Existentialism
Discuss the film in terms of Nietzsche’s eternal return
“Inside Llewyn Davis” by Ethan and Joel Coen is centered on a harshly ironic existential joke and a secular riddle. The film starts and ends with somewhat dissenting versions of a similar event. Llewyn Davis, an aspiring folk singer performs onstage at a coffeehouse called Gaslight and mysterious stranger awaits to beat him up as he steps into the back street. People wondered whether the last scene was a flashback and the first scene was a flash-forward. It is framed in a playful harshness towards the audience and main character, and also as a philosophical pessimism. We can, therefore, say that Davis is clung a kind of nightmare resembling Nietzsche’s eternal return damned to lead a life of misery for the rest of his life. (Stevens)
The “Please Mr. Kennedy” scene is the most famous scene in the film Inside Llewyn Davis as it almost represents the main theme of this film. Llewyn Davis, a haughty, moody and declining folk singer is desperately in need of money. As a result, he consents to take part recording of an amusing single by the named “Please Mr. Kennedy” by John Glenn singers group. Though it is very catchy, this song is very much despised by Davis. It talks of prosperity while he is personally in a world of failure. While everyone else in is headed for success, Davis’ own life and music are on the decline. (Stevens)
What is the name of the Gorfeins’ cat? How is that significant?
Davis, for most of this film, has little idea about the name of the cat. It is later found out that the name of this cat is Ulysses. This is after it returns to the apartment owned by the Gorfeins. The Roman name for Homer’s Odyssey is Ulysses. This name is very relevant in this film because it is itself a new conception of the Homer’s Odyssey set in contrast with background of the Depression-era south. The cat, therefore is used to symbolize a famous event hence its significance in the film “Inside Llewyn Davis”. (Scott)
Work cited
Scott, A. "‘Inside Llewyn Davis,’ Directed By Joel And Ethan Coen". Nytimes.com. N.p., 2013. Web. 11 May 2016.
Stevens, Dana. "Inside Llewyn Davis: An Enigmatic Parable About Ambition And Failure—Set To Excellent Music". Slate Magazine. N.p., 2016. Web. 11 May 2016.
