How does the Truman Show explore the consequences of deception?
Consequences of deception is portrayed through the utilisation of literary techniques used by
composers to effectively convey the repercussions of deceit. Peter Weir’s, “The Truman
Show” released in 1998, explores the life of a man who unknowingly lives in a constructed
reality television show. The Truman Show analyses the deception of commercialism,
explores the impact of media on contemporary society, and questions viewers on their
perception of reality.
Composers utilise satire to critique the prevalence of product placement to fulfill the desires
of the audience through exploitation. This is explored in the scene where Meryl, amidst a
heated conversation between her and Truman, decides to perform an ad on coco powder
towards the diegetic audience. The use of a close-up shot while Meryl presents an ad, whilst
consciously breaking the fourth wall accompanied with scripted dialogue, highlights the
conscious level of advertising. Truman’s perception of product placement symbolises
modern society, where people are unaware of the constant subconscious product placement
occurring. Commercialism is also evident in the scene where Meryl states, “Hi honey, look
what I got at the checkout…”. In this scene, Meryl consciously advertises the ‘chef’s pal’ she
purchased, presenting the product with information as if it were a commercial. The quote is a
commentary on the consumerist culture prevalent in society. Meryl resembles a robotic tone
which, hence, represents the idea of consumer’s decisions being driven by the impulsive
nature of marketing and the strategic methods used to display product placement. Thus, the
utilisation of satire to critique the widespread advertisements explores the consequences of
deceit as Truman is constantly being exploited for sponsorships.
By creating a parody of the media’s influence on society, composers are able to explore the
consequences of deceit of the media as they shape perspectives and impact societal values
and opinions. Weir’s text explores this notion through Truman’s life as it is constantly being
watched via cameras hidden across Seahaven. In the quote stated by Christoff, “I am the
creator of a television show that gives hope and joy and inspiration to millions”. Christoff
positions himself as a transcendent being, where his characterisation resembles absolute
control over Truman’s world and life. The statement made by Christoff is ironic as in the end
of the film, Truman reveals the artificiality of his world and its staged reality. The ethos
presented gives rise to ethical implications of Christoff playing ‘God’ with someone as equal
to him. It further sets the stage for establishing moral dilemmas experienced by those who
wield significant power that influence people’s perception and lives. Moreover, Peter Weir
illustrates the impact of media on deception in a pivotal scene towards the climax, where
Truman confronts the boundaries of the artificial world when he encounters the end of the
set. Through the use of wide and high angle shots, his vulnerability and powerlessness are
captured as he comes to realisation that his world is meticulously crafted for the
entertainment of others. Ultimately, the impact of media on society highlights the
consequences of deception as Christoff loses his only way of control over society through
the exploitation of Truman towards the media.
Through the persuasive effects of prevalent illusions and the continuous disregard to reality,
composers are able to convey the repercussions of deceit. Peter Weir divulges this concept
through frequent encounters to where the behind-the-scenes crew happen to interfere with
Truman’s world. This is evident when Truman is driving his car and tunes into the radio.
Through a low angle shot, radio broadcasts appear to be narrating his exact movements and
thoughts in real time. The broadcast provides a detailed commentary on Truman’s actions,
representing his daily routine as a scripted and orchestrated performance. The scene
exemplifies the theme of reality vs illusion as Truman slowly elucidates the carefully
assembled world around him. The use of a convex lens adds a disturbing layer of realisation
that his life is consistently being monitored and controlled. The confusion he displays as he
comes to realisation is illustrated through a close-up shot, foreshadowing his persistent effort
to search for the truth. Another example can be seen in the final scene where Truman is
seen ascending onto the staircase, entering into the real world. This scene portrays the act
of transition of an artificial world to reality. The use of a high-angle shot is employed to
emphasise on the inferiority of Truman. It reinforces the idea that Truman is being watched
and controlled as he ascends the stairs, symbolising that he is approaching reality. Hence,
through the exploration of the persuasiveness of reality vs illusion, Peter Weir effectively
reinforces the ramification of deceit through the use of literary techniques and cinematic
forms.
In summation, composers have the ability to convey to audience’s significant issues using
ideas, forms, and language to resonate with modern audiences. In “The Truman Show”,
analyses the deception of commercialism, explores the impact of media on contemporary
society, and questions viewers on their perception of reality.
