The use of colors Unbreakable - Shayamalan's genius at play

10 May 2023

In Unbreakable, the use of colors, particularly green and purple, is a significant visual element that adds depth and symbolism to the film. M. Night Shyamalan employs a deliberate color palette to evoke specific emotions, enhance storytelling, and provide subtle visual cues to the audience.


Green, often associated with growth, renewal, and vitality, plays a prominent role in Unbreakable. It appears in various scenes, most notably through the color of David Dunn's security guard uniform, the interior of his home, and the hospital where he undergoes tests. Green represents David's potential and his journey towards self-discovery. As he begins to realize his superhuman abilities, the presence of green signifies his growth and transformation into a "hero."


david dunn unbreakable green


Moreover, the use of green serves as a visual contrast to the muted tones and darker shades prevalent throughout the film. It stands out, highlighting David's unique qualities and setting him apart from the ordinary world. The color green also symbolizes hope, suggesting that David's abilities might be a source of inspiration and positivity.


On the other hand, purple, often associated with mystery, spirituality, and power, is predominantly associated with Elijah Price, a character portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson. Elijah, who suffers from a rare bone disorder, is an avid comic book art gallery owner and possesses a profound understanding of comic book mythology. Purple is often seen in his attire, his personal spaces, and the artwork displayed in his gallery.


mr glass unbreakable


The color purple represents Elijah's enigmatic nature and his belief in extraordinary individuals existing in the world. It signifies his connection to the world of comics, which he sees as a reflection of reality. Purple also symbolizes the balance to David's green, representing Elijah's potential as a counterpart or foil to David's heroism. It suggests the duality of good and evil, as Elijah's motivations and actions blur the line between hero and villain.


In addition to their individual associations, the interplay of green and purple in certain scenes serves to visually contrast David and Elijah. When they share the frame, the colors emphasize their differing perspectives and roles in the narrative. This visual contrast further enhances the exploration of heroism and villainy within the film.


Overall, the use of green and purple in Unbreakable adds depth and symbolism to the storytelling. The presence of green highlights David's transformation and potential, while purple represents the mystery and duality of Elijah's character. These colors, carefully chosen and strategically placed throughout the film, contribute to the overall visual language and thematic exploration of identity, heroism, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

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About the author Jimmy Jangles


My name is Jimmy Jangles, the founder of The Astromech. I have always been fascinated by the world of science fiction, especially the Star Wars universe, and I created this website to share my love for it with fellow fans.

At The Astromech, you can expect to find a variety of articles, reviews, and analysis related to science fiction, including books, movies, TV, and games.
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