What Is The Theme Of Redemption In Sling Blade

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Not only was Billy Bob Thornton the leading role in Sling Blade (1996), he also wrote and directed the film. While the story line is rather predictable, nothing is taken away from the depth of this film. It is quickly discovered that the childhood of Karl Childers was unfortunate. The movie continues on to show that people, no matter the circumstances, all can relate to one another. The theme, and purpose, of this film is redemption. Individually differing while all sharing qualities creates a bond between the characters that makes this film memorable. Not to mention Billy Bob Thornton’s authentic performance.
From the beginning of the movie, people seem to have a fascination over a man with a mental disability. After telling his story another …show more content…

The reason this movie can make such an impact is because anyone can relate to it. There is something in it for everyone. The whole movie revolves around redemption. Second chances are never actually discusses but they seem to take place quite often throughout the film. For example, Linda, Frank’s mom, gives her abusive boyfriend, Doyle, several chances. Even though he is repeatedly mistreating her, and everyone involved in her life. She is doing so in the hopes that she will be as happy as she once was with her deceased husband. On some level, Linda knows that Doyle will never even compare to her late husband but she keeps him around for selfish reasons. Karl’s chance at redemption is a little different than Linda’s. Karl knows that he has done wrong in his life and he sees his friendship with Frank to make some things right. If not in his own life, than someone else’s. There are several occasions where Frank seeks advice from his new friend, usually involving his mother and Doyle. Instead of Karl telling him to do what he did, which he obviously still thinks is acceptable after killing Doyle, he steers him in the right direction. He tells Frank to take the high road and to control himself, unlike he did. He truly cares for Frank and wants what is best for him. This is his rationality for getting rid of Doyle. While his childhood was far from perfect, Karl is doing everything in his power to make sure Frank’s is the best it can

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