CHARACTER STRENGTHS EXAMINED IN WES ANDERSON'S NEW FILM.....
The legendary concierge, M. GUSTAVE (Center, played by Ralph Fiennes), exemplifies the character strength of Courage in Wes Anderson's Newest Film, The Grand Budapest Hotel.
The Bravery of M. GUSTAVE
The Grand Budapest Hotel is a fast-moving fantasy based on the legendary concierge, Monsieur Gustave (above). The story is told in a flasback by the lobby boy who served under Gustave and through it we see Gustave as filled with zest, incredibly kind, and notably brave in his dealings with cruel others when faced with false accusations against him---not to mention the entire story occurs amidst a terrible war, in which he always keeps his wits about him!
Bravery is a character strength which falls under the virtue of Courage. In Positive Psychology at the Movies, Niemiec & Wedding describe bravery as 'a voluntary action taken despite risk, danger, or potential injury.' This action is usually taken in
spite of risk in favor of a greater good. One might
think of soldiers on a battlefield in relation to this type of bravery. On reflection, M. Gustave, takes many great physical and legal risks time and time again to protect his loyal lobby boy, Zero (above right), against violent policmen when they routinely question Zero about his immigrant status. This type of bravery is not only physical , but what Niemiec & Wedding would call 'moral courage' as Gustave maintains high ethical standards and authenticity even when perilous odds are stacked against him, in favor of doing what he knows in his heart is the right thing to do.
Without giving too much more away, we encourage to check out this lovely film, which some are saying is Wes Anderson's masterpiece!
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