Whit Stillman’s Metropolitan seems to follow a crowd somewhat resemblant to Bethesda’s privileged youth. I’ve become used to getting caught in intellectual conversations, spending much of my time around IB students -- some of which are now Ivy League bound. Having been disciplined to speak on subjects like literature, society, politics, and philosophy, many of these people love to boast of their theories and share how much they know. Like the Urban Haute Bourgeoisie, they’re snobby and uptight at a distance, but, with a closer look, they appear to be just as clueless as anyone else.
The group dynamic in the “Sally Fowler Rat Pack” shows a constant back and forth of insightful theories like games among the upper-class college students in Manhattan. But, although they have the capacity to involve themselves in worldly, “bigger picture” issues, it becomes clear that they lack self-awareness and are actually shielded from the real world. This unfortunate irony is present as Tom becomes more involved with the SFRP over winter break. As an outsider to the upper-class bubble, Tom is more in touch with personal values, which makes him more inclined to later pursue Audrey, the girl he cares for in the end. He stands out on most fronts -- he rents his tuxedo, lives in the Upper West Side of New York, walks home, and wears a raincoat instead of an expensive overcoat. Even his habit of reading book reviews in lieu of actual novels contributes to his “outside looking in” persona. While there is definitely depth to the other characters in the SFRP, their self-delusion makes them fade, along with their superficial relationships. It is only Charlie, who expresses his cynical worldviews throughout the film, that can join Tom in the revelation that genuine connections and friendships are what’s most valuable in life.
Of course, the SFRP is only an exaggeration of the exclusive International Baccalaureate clique in BCC, but Stillman’s message remains relevant. Yes, intelligence is impressive and is something that everyone should strive for. But when it begins to overshadow basic human values, there’s nowhere to go but down.
Interesting connection with the IB community here at B-CC. It's always a bit of a puzzle to have firmly held philosophies and yet remaining open to the idea that you could be wrong. I think that's what gets most of us into trouble. Then there's the other side of the coin, when we say we have firmly held views but don't really hold to them all that firmly. Most people think this isn't an admirable quality, but ultimately, we need to feel free to change our minds and contradict ourselves, or we don't grow.
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