Is Severance About Hell?
Severance, a psychological horror film directed by Jordan Peele, has sparked a plethora of discussions and interpretations since its release in 2018. One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is the central question: Is Severance about hell? This article aims to delve into this theme and explore the various interpretations that viewers have drawn from the film.
The film follows a character named Dana, who works for a company called Blue Book. The company requires its employees to undergo a mysterious procedure called “severance,” which involves a device called a “severance unit” that allows them to detach from their bodies and work from home. As Dana navigates her life with her new arrangement, she begins to uncover the dark secrets behind the company and its motivations.
The concept of hell is often associated with suffering, punishment, and eternal damnation. In Severance, the idea of hell is subtly woven into the narrative, as the employees of Blue Book are subjected to a form of punishment for their transgressions. The severance unit, while seemingly beneficial for allowing employees to work from home, also serves as a form of control and punishment. The characters are forced to choose between their loyalty to the company and their own moral compass, which ultimately leads to their downfall.
One interpretation of the film is that it portrays hell as a place of one’s own creation. The employees of Blue Book are metaphorically locked in a hellish existence, as they are trapped in a cycle of obedience and self-destruction. Their suffering is a direct result of their own choices and the consequences of their actions. This interpretation suggests that the true hell in Severance is not an external place, but rather a manifestation of the characters’ inner turmoil and moral dilemmas.
Another interpretation of the film is that it portrays hell as a reflection of societal norms and values. The company’s culture, which prioritizes efficiency and productivity over human connection and well-being, can be seen as a representation of a flawed society. The employees’ descent into madness and despair is a commentary on the dangers of blind obedience to authority and the loss of one’s identity in the pursuit of success.
Moreover, the film’s use of visual symbolism further reinforces the theme of hell. The red, white, and blue color scheme of the severance unit, reminiscent of the American flag, can be interpreted as a representation of the nation’s ideals being twisted and corrupted. The dark, oppressive atmosphere of the film’s setting also contributes to the sense of being trapped in a hellish environment.
In conclusion, the question of whether Severance is about hell is a complex one. The film presents multiple interpretations of the concept, from a personal hell created by one’s own choices to a societal commentary on the dangers of blind obedience. Whether viewers see the film as a cautionary tale or a metaphysical exploration, it is clear that Severance is a thought-provoking and chilling examination of the human condition.
