Unraveling 'Triangle' and the Eternal Loop: A Deeper Dive

The film 'Triangle' introduces us to Jess, a character whose story is as captivating as it is terrifying. The question often arises: When will Jess successfully save herself and her son?

The Crashed Triangle and Its Consequences

The crash that steals Jess's life seems to be the catalyst for her eternal loop. The plot takes a surreal turn when the characters find themselves on a ferry that loops endlessly, defying the laws of normal time and space. However, the question remains: what if Jess had stayed at home and avoided the crash altogether?

The Ferryman: A Symbol of Greek Mythology

The ferryman in the film is a fascinating character, reminiscent of the Greek mythological figure of Charon, who ferries the souls across the River Styx in Hades. In 'Triangle,' the ferryman symbol can be interpreted as the Grim Reaper, a guide leading souls to the afterlife. However, the ferryman in this film shows an unusual level of friendliness and ambiguity, stating, "I'm just your taxi driver" and "I'll leave the meter running, you'll be back right."

The Loop and Its Implications

The loop in 'Triangle' is a central theme that adds depth and complexity to the film. Each time Jess and her son reappear on the ferry, she seems to suffer the same fate, trapped in a cycle of death and rebirth. Despite the ferryman’s offer to take her to her final destination, she repeatedly fails to escape the loop. This raises the question of whether she truly goes into amnesia or simply accepts her fate at the end of the film.

Character Analysis: Jess and Her Tragic Fate

Jess, a seemingly sweet and charming character, becomes the focus of both admiration and criticism. Her cuteness, a deliberate casting choice, is meant to evoke empathy from the audience. However, beneath this facade lies a more complex character who is a child abuser, her actions directly responsible for the tragic crash that caused her current predicament. This duality raises the unsettling question: does Jess truly deserve her punishment?

Greek Mythology in 'Triangle'

The movie is rich with references to Greek mythology, spoonfeeding the audience with its narrative. The eternal loop, reminiscent of Sisyphus, symbolizes the punishment for cheating the ferryman. Jess's failure to escape the loop, like Sisyphus pushing the boulder uphill, represents her inability to break free from her past and current circumstances. The taxi driver's role as the ferryman symbolizes the Grim Reaper, further reinforcing the film's mythological underpinnings.

The Ambiguity of the Loop Start

The loop itself is shrouded in ambiguity, with several clues pointing in different directions. When Jess gets off the boat and goes home, she finds herself back on the ferry, observing herself and even killing her double self. This suggests that the loop may not have a clear starting point, adding to the film's enigmatic nature and intellectual challenge.

Conclusion: A Thinking Person's Horror Movie

Overall, 'Triangle' is a thought-provoking horror film that offers more than just scares. It challenges the viewer to dive deeper into Greek mythology and explore the concept of fate, punishment, and the human condition. As a thinking person's horror movie, it invites multiple interpretations and discussions, making it a rich addition to any horror genre collection.

Key Points:

The loop is a central theme that raises questions about fate and personal responsibility. The ferryman's role is both friendly and ominous, reflecting the duality of death in Greek mythology. Jess’s character is complex, blending charm with a tragic past, leading to ambiguity in the ending. The movie’s rich references to Greek mythology enhance its depth and intellectual appeal.