Titanic is one of the most iconic films in the history of the film sector. James Cameron wrote, directed, co-edited, and directed the epic romance movie that made its debut in 1997. Titanic is based on a true story of the RMS Titanic sinking that occurred in 1912. However, the film combines some fictional elements to make it more interesting and intriguing. A comparison between Titanic and the RMS Titanic tragedy reveals some differences and similarities. One of the main causes of the differences is the inclusion of the fictional elements in the film. Despite Titanic deviating from the original historical tragedy due to the inclusion of fictional elements, the film contains all the major details of the disaster.
One of the main strengths of the Titanic movie is the writing and directing. James Cameron did an incredible job in writing and directing the film, while using the RMS Titanic tragedy as a historical background. The two main characters also play a huge role in the success of the movie. Jack Dawson and Rose DeWitt Bukater played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, effectively help in building and developing the storyline and the narrative. The manner in which the two characters meet and how their relationship develops while on the ship is interesting and intriguing. During their interaction in Rose’s room, she states, “Jack, I want you to draw me like one of your French girls” (Final Tv). Rose invites Jack to her room when she discovers that she is developing feelings for him and prefers him over her fiancée. “It was the ship of dreams to everyone else. To me, it was a slave ship taking me back to America in chains” (Final Tv). Rose says the words above in reference to her engagement and impending marriage to Cal Hockley. It reveals that Rose was not completely happy and contented about the engagement, despite her mother noting the importance of her getting married to Cal due to their current financial challenges.
Titanic presents numerous teachings about life to the viewers. The bond that develops between Rose and Jack reveals that love can conquer anything in life. The two end up making sacrifices for each other during the film due to their love for each other. “When the ship docks, I’m getting off with you” (Final Tv). Despite the two not knowing each other that well and Rose being engaged, she was ready to sacrifice financial fulfillment and follow her happiness, which she was clearly missing with Cal. “Never let go” (Final Tv). The phrase is one of the most important ones in the last scene that the film portrays Rose and Jack together. Jack makes Rose promise that she will never give up no matter the challenges she encounters in life. In the end, he is unable to survive, but he manages to save Rose. Jack also teaches the essence of valuing the simple things in life. “I got air in my lungs, a few blanks sheets of paper. I mean, I love waking up in the morning, not knowing what’s gonna happen or, who I’m gonna meet, where I’m gonna wind up” (Final Tv). The statement reveals that individuals should learn to take each moment at a time.
One of the main weaknesses of Titanic is the inclusion of the fictional elements. Anyone who watches the film with the intention of understanding the real historical correlation might be unimpressed by the storyline. For example, the main characters, Jack and Rose, are fictional characters who were not on board the RMS Titanic (Koldau 45). However, the two meet other characters on board who are based on real people. The love story between Jack and Rose is also fictional. Hence, anyone watching Titanic should be ready for the fusion of a real story with fictional elements.
Overall, Titanic is a great film that has gained increased credit and accolades over the years. James Cameron should be commended for the great job that he did in fusing the original RMS Titanic tragedy story and fictional elements to create a masterpiece. For anyone that is yet to watch the classic and iconic film, they should go ahead and watch it without wasting any time.
Works Cited
Final Tv. “Titanic Movie (1997) – Full Movie.” YouTube, 10 Apr. 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQB_Dzyo0DE
Koldau, Linda Maria. The Titanic on Film: Myth versus Truth. McFarland, 2014.
EffectivePapers.com is a professional essay writing service committed to writing non-plagiarized custom essays, research papers, dissertations, and other assignments of top quality. All academic papers are written from scratch by highly qualified essay writers. Just proceed with your order, and we will find the best academic writer for you!