He characterizes Fink as an ineffective and powerless left-wing intellectual who betrays his convictions under the guise of moral righteousness. Roger Ebert notes in his review that the Coen brothers constructed an analogy to depict the rise of Nazism. This mirrors how Nazis viewed Jewish people. In a particular scene, Lipnick admonishes Barton while donning a full military uniform, critiquing the writer’s ideology as if they were all the same. The film incorporates different fascist and Nazi elements that are interconnected. The story is deliberately set in 1941 to coincide with World War II. Jack Lipnick, the boss, treats Barton as his property and uses derogatory terms towards him. The Coen brothers go further by portraying Capitol Studios, the film studio, as a fascist Nazi regime. The Hotel Earle is likened to hell, which serves as a criticism of the entire Hollywood industry. In this moment, we witness not only the hellish symbolism but also Barton’s realization of the hell he has been trapped in ever since leaving New York. Charlie returns and proceeds to murder two cops before setting fire to the 6th floor of Hotel Earle. However, the climax of the film showcases the ultimate imagery of hell. Conveniently, Chet assigns Barton to the 6th floor, and the conversation between Barton and the elevator attendant revolves around the number six (Rowell 156). When Barton first arrives, Chet emerges from an underground room, appearing as if he has come from the underworld. Through various occurrences, like the peeling wallpaper and Charlie’s perpetual sweating, the film suggests the oppressive heat that pervades their hotel living situation. The Hotel Earle, resembling hell, symbolizes nightmares and reflects Barton’s mental anguish. However, at the end, it is uncovered that Charlie is a psychopathic serial killer who manipulates Barton as revenge for a noise complaint earlier in the film. When Charlie and Barton engage in conversation, the viewer becomes completely absorbed, even though the purpose of their relationship is uncertain. Resembling a dream or nightmare, the most memorable instances in the movie are those that provide some clarity, like Fink’s interactions with Charlie (John Goodman). These elements contribute to the eerie ambiance of the film. The apartment scenes depicting Fink, his dilapidated wallpaper and solitary photograph, along with subtle background noises, create the impression of a writer lacking inspiration, confined in silence and frustration.
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