Final answer:
The title 'What’s Eating Gilbert Grape' and its storyline resemble themes from 'Of Mice and Men', particularly caretaking and small-town confinement. Gilbert Grape's arc follows his shift from feeling burdened by his family to understanding and accepting his role within it. Character motivations range from seeking normalcy and freedom to finding acceptance and purpose in the narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The title 'What’s Eating Gilbert Grape' reflects the burdens and responsibilities that weigh on the protagonist, reminiscent of George's care for Lennie in 'Of Mice and Men'. Both stories showcase strong themes of familial responsibility, mental disability, and the pursuit of dreams within the confines of small-town life. Gilbert's relationship with his brother Arnie mirrors George's relationship with Lennie, wherein both Gilbert and George are caretakers dealing with the challenges posed by their loved ones' disabilities. Furthermore, the setting of 1970s Endora, IA, is similar to the 1930s farm near Salinas, CA, providing a backdrop of economic stagnation that amplifies the characters' personal struggles and desires.
The beginning of 'What’s Eating Gilbert Grape' starts with a depiction of Gilbert's monotonous life which could be compared to the repetitive and hard life led by George and Lennie in 'Of Mice and Men'. As for the expected themes to be covered by the movie, topics such as personal sacrifice, the challenges of caregiving, importance of family, and the conflicts between individual desires and duty can be anticipated.
In terms of the protagonist's character arc, Gilbert Grape initially feels trapped by his familial responsibilities, but as the film progresses, he develops a broader understanding of love and loyalty. His journey reflects a deeper appreciation for his family and hometown, despite the limitations they impose on his personal growth. Gilbert's characterization is deeply connected to his actions and interactions, showcasing his frustration, kindness, and transformative realization about the world's expectations versus personal fulfillment.
The character motivations in 'What's Eating Gilbert Grape' are complex. At the surface level, Gilbert seems to be striving for normalcy but at a deeper level, he desires freedom and self-fulfillment. Arnie Grape, Gilbert's brother, is mostly driven by a desire for connection and autonomy. The town of Endora functions as a stagnant background that many characters are striving either to escape or improve. Other characters, such as Amy, Ellen, Mother Grape, and Becky, have their own set of motivations, ranging from caring for family to searching for a place where they feel they belong. Each character's deeper motivations often involve seeking acceptance, love, or a sense of purpose.