All living creatures have an instinct for adaptation, but it is only a limited one. In the film Cast Away, Chuck Noland must adapt to a harsh environment in order to survive for longer than just a few days. A plane crash leaves him stranded, alone and in the tropical islands after all other passengers have died. Three things help him survive on the island. It is firstly the photo of Kelly, who he loves and wants to return to. Wilson, his volleyball friend, was also a way to connect with society. Last, but not least, his major and significant character change was a key aspect that exemplified the adaptation.
The pocket watch Kelly gave to him before he flew represents both his loss and new understanding. He keeps her photo in it, as a shrine for his hope of leaving the island. Chuck has no time to tell, so the pocketwatch does not work. Chuck is stranded, unable to meet his schedule. Chuck tries to adapt and survive in the new land to be able to return to Kelly. Kelly may not be seen in this movie, but she was an important part of Chuck’s mentality. It was her photo that motivated him to survive on the island; it was what he looked at before going to bed and when he first woke up. Wilson was found in a plane parcel, and Chuck instantly connected with it. Wilson, his painted with a facial expression, is the only person he can talk to. Chuck tries to adjust to his new life by getting comfortable. Wilson is a key character in this story, as he helps keep Chuck sane while he’s on the island. Chuck uses a tennis ball to start a conversation. For many, this would be insane. But for Chuck, it’s he best way to cope when he is isolated from everyone else. Wilson awakens Chuck’s emotions and saves him from going insane.
Chuck is driven by his need for time. He used to tell other FedEx workers, “Time’s our enemy”. In fact, the movie makes it seem as though Chuck has forgotten how to make the most of his time. Chuck’s old values are no longer relevant when he finds himself on an island. His new concern is survival. His old skills are irrelevant. The island setting was a stark contrast for the hectic life he lived before. Chuck’s drastic change in character shows how the island has affected him. In the beginning, Chuck becomes frustrated because he can’t catch fish or light a fire on the Island. The fact that he’s in a strange world is evident. He doesn’t even know where to begin. He becomes more skilled as the years go by, becoming able to make fires, catch fish and even do his own dentistry. Chuck is now a half-weighted caveman. He is now a more settled man, even though he’s not happy with the new island lifestyle. He only had time. He realizes that he has to be grateful and cherish his time with Kelly after he is rescued. But, Kelly has left him. Chuck’s life has changed dramatically after four years of living on a desolate island. His character now appreciates and values his family and friends.
Chuck’s adaptation is marked by three key factors. Chuck’s girl friend helps him get through the island ordeal by being in his head and keeping a photo of her. Wilson, Chuck’s volleyball friend, helps him adapt to his new environment by bringing him back into familiarity with society and emotions. Chuck demonstrates how a change in character or appearance can make a person who they are. “Cast Away”, a movie about human adaptation and motivation, is the ultimate example. ?
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