Pay it Forward is a film about society and what each of us can do to improve it. Each character represents many different life lessons, and here are a few of them. Trevor represents giving, Eugene Simonet represents fear, Arlene represents despair, Chris Chandler (Reporter) represents curiosity, and the stranger named Mr. Thorsen represents kindness.
Trevor McKinney had a very absorbing mind. He was willing to listen to anyone. Fortunately, the right person arrived to guide you. Mr. Simonet gave you the task to change the world. Trevor created a unique concept called ‘Pay it Forward’. It consists of doing a great favor to 3 different people, and like a pyramid, spreading the word to each of them to do favors for 3 other strangers. Many people may think of doing something like this, but Trevor really does. It shows how truly generous he was. In the most difficult circumstances, Trevor focused on helping others, which is why he represented giving.
Eugene Simonet, Trevor’s social studies teacher, had great intentions for the world. He gave his class an assignment that involved changing the world for the better, but perhaps out of fear of doing it himself. In his relationship with Arlene, he showed great fear most of the time. This was due to his inability to put his past behind him. Eugene Simonet had to take drastic measures to release his fear.
Arlene McKinney represented despair. Most of his actions were carried out desperately, hoping for a better future. She worked 2 “informal” jobs, just to support Trevor and herself after her ex-husband Ricky left her. When Ricky came back into her life, she got him back, because she hoped to get back to normal. He preferred certainty in a bad relationship to uncertainty in a good relationship. Of course, this would change at the end of the movie.
Chris Chandler was a very curious reporter. It represented curiosity, because he was willing to drive a long distance, just to find information about a story. A story that won’t make you money. Chris was a very proactive person, he just needed his own approval to take a certain action. His curiosity led him to do a good deed.
Finally, the stranger named Mr. Thorsen represented goodness. He gave Chris his new Jaguar, just to pay for it. A bit unrealistic, yes, but a great action to represent goodness. Being nice usually starts a positive chain reaction, and this kind act from a stranger made Chris heighten his sense of curiosity about the ‘Pay It Upfront’ situation.
If you’re a fan of truly inspiring movies, then I’m sure “Pay it Forward” has a chance to be on your top movies list. Each character represents so many ideas, which makes it a very special movie. Although it is quite sad, “Pay it Forward” surely contains great life lessons for everyone.