THE NIGHTMARISH DYSTOPIAN CITES OF KURT WIMMER AND

PHILIP NOYCE 6

4.2.3. Spaces of normality

In the two movies, both cities have the potential to become spaces of normality and happiness if
the regime is changed, if the inhabitants embrace a new socio-political order. In Equilibrium, the
urban environment is depicted as bleak and dark. However, when John regains his humanity, he
sees the metropolis with different eyes and the city seems to acquire a breathtaking beauty. The
film also depicts delightful rooms full of trinkets and memorabilia such as paintings, books and
gramophones that belong to a time when society was allowed to feel emotion.
Phillip Noyce’s film also presents alternative spaces of normality, such as the Giver’s house,
with its classical piano, with its lamps and shelves full of books. The “Elsewhere”, the place
beyond the border of the community where Jonas and Gabriel escape, is also a site that contains
a promise of hope, joy, happiness.