The Truman Show: The Innovative Film Without An Expiry Date

Release date: 1998

Rating: PG

Duration time: 103mins

Happily residing in an unusually perfect way of living with his ‘wife’, Meryl (Laura Linley), insurance salesman Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey) is oblivious to the fact that his entire life is a lie being broadcasted and viewed by millions from all over the world. The opening scene of the movie reinforces the acknowledgement of Truman being the first unsuspecting star of a Christof (Ed Harris) led organisation, with members of the cast giving their take on the in a ‘Diary Room-esque’ confessional, familiar to former hit-show, Big Brother.

With Carrey’s career, he’s predominately known for his humorous roles, from Ace Ventura to Bruce Almighty, a change of genre may have been a calculated risk, but with Carrey being as talented as he is, he thrived and shined in this darker role.

Our first impressions of Truman instantly make us aware that the organisation have evolved their ‘plant’ to be a kind-hearted and comedic individual, heightened by multiple scenes of him greeting his fellow residents of, Seahaven Island with a huge smile and positive energy. As mandatory in films like these, the protagonist soon realises that things aren’t what they seem.

Possibly one of the most memorable and intense scenes of The Truman Show, coming during the 30-minute mark of the film, Truman begins to hear behind-the-scenes conversations which are mistakenly transmitted out of his car radio. The continuation of the scene leads Truman and the viewer to the ground floor of his building, where the unprepared cast and crew present the show’s set which is normally hidden behind the walls. That being said, it became the start of a series of strange events that take the movie from ordinary to an experience.

The pathway that the film takes after 45 minutes is something to behold and brings many concepts to the forefront, with the viewers finding out that the organisation became the first to legally adopt a child. Just like in our modern-day, whether it is negative or not, we find ourselves being glued to our phone or TV screens to know what transpires next – a societal similarity that won’t ever change. Leading onto the cut-away scenes, with each dramatic moment, we enter the homes and businesses of individuals that have been watching the 24/7 aired show since its premiere.

The heart-breaking demise of Truman’s usual bubbly persona is painful to watch, heightened by a very poignant scene with his ‘best friend’, Marlon (Noah Emmerich). As Truman’s suspicions run high, Marlon steps in to rescue Meryl after she blurts out: “do something!”(clearly alerting the production), during a tussle between the two of them. As we continue, Marlon takes Truman to a bridge and we begin to hear an orchestic soundtrack to intensify the scenes meaningful nature. With each word Marlon says, it cuts back to the studio, where Christof is dictating what he says, with the tragic irony of the line: “and the last thing I’ll ever do, is lie to you.” This proves to be the beginning of the end.

Following Truman’s attempt to escape the totalitarian world, we are taken on a monumental journey. With just him and a boat, he battles the waves of the studio-made sea, foreshadowing an early scene, in an event where they made him believe that his ‘dad’ passed away during their boat ride when he was a child. The performance that Carrey displays is one of his best, proving every unconvinced critic wrong.

Christof’s control is consistent throughout, allowing him to bring out the sun during the PM and increasing the strength of the incoming waves that Truman has to face. Suddenly, the audience of the show began to root for Truman as he is on the verge of escaping the made-up dystopian world. A possible nod to George Orwell's acclaimed, 1984.

At the close of the innovative film, Truman leaves similar to the way he was introduced, in a positive manner, with a leaving message for Christof: "In case I don’t see ya, good afternoon, good evening and good night,” a slogan that’ll livelong with that character. After this, we are shown roars of happiness from the devoted audience.

A similar video-game inspired adaptation of the film emerged this year with, “Free Guy”. Starring Ryan Reynolds, an NPC (Non-playable character) that slowly comes to life and believes that his world is real and is oblivious to the fact that he’s the new star of the game. Director, Shawn Levy may have not wanted The Truman Show comparison but it’s hard to shy away from the identical showings.

The Truman Show is a well-and-truly brilliantly directed film and covers every emotion and has an amazing storyline. The perfectly shot cinematic scenes and soundtrack enhance the emotion that you feel after watching it. The memorable portrayal that Jim Carrey produced for Truman Burbank is mesmerising and was sealed with his 1999 Golden Globe victory. The film is a pioneer for future ones that will be created and will go down as one of the best from the 90s.