“Once Upon a Time in America” is a 1984 epic crime drama film directed by Sergio Leone. This sweeping tale follows a group of Jewish ghetto youths who rise to prominence in New York City’s world of organized crime. The film intricately weaves themes of friendship, betrayal, and the passage of time, offering a poignant exploration of the American dream and its pitfalls.
Below are ten literary devices identified in the film, along with specific examples from the movie. Each table corresponds to a different device.
Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example Opening scene The story begins with a flashback , setting the tone for the non-linear narrative . Noodles in the opium den Noodles’ memories of the past are triggered, transporting the audience back in time.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Eve’s murder Early scenes hint at the violent end awaiting Noodles’ loved ones. Max’s ambitions Max’s early desire for power foreshadows his eventual betrayal.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The suitcase The suitcase full of money symbolizes both opportunity and loss. The bridge The bridge represents the passage of time and connection between past and present.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Noodles’ betrayal Noodles betrays his friends, only to be betrayed by Max later. The childhood promise The promise of sticking together forever is ironically broken by greed .
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The title The title itself is a metaphor for the idealized, mythic view of America. Deborah’s character Deborah represents unattainable purity and the lost dream of a better life.
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example Theater scene References to Shakespearean plays during Deborah’s performance. The Great Depression The film alludes to historical events like Prohibition and the Great Depression.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Childhood vs. adulthood Scenes shift between the innocence of youth and the corruption of adulthood. Wealth vs. poverty The stark contrast between the luxurious lifestyles and the impoverished ghetto.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example Time The recurring motif of clocks and timepieces underscores the theme of time’s passage. Opium den The motif of escapism through drugs highlights the characters’ desires to forget their past.
Paradox
Movie Scene Device Example Noodles’ happiness Noodles finds moments of happiness in a life filled with crime and regret. Max’s fate Max achieves his dream of power but ends up living in hiding and fear.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example The rise and fall The film serves as an allegory for the American dream’s corruption and decay. The friendships The allegory of loyalty and betrayal mirrors the broader social and moral decay.
Character Studies
Noodles
Device Explanation Flashback Noodles’ character is deeply explored through flashbacks that reveal his motivations and regrets. Symbolism Noodles’ actions and decisions symbolize the struggle between loyalty and betrayal.
Max
Device Explanation Irony Max’s rise to power and eventual downfall are laced with irony , highlighting his complex character. Foreshadowing Early indications of Max’s ruthless ambition foreshadow his ultimate betrayal.
Deborah
Device Explanation Metaphor Deborah serves as a metaphor for purity and unattainable dreams. Allusion Her character alludes to classic tragic figures, adding depth to her role.
Character Dynamics
The relationships between characters like Noodles and Max drive the narrative , with their friendship and betrayal central to the story. The dynamics between Noodles and Deborah explore themes of love and loss, while the interactions among the gang members highlight themes of loyalty and corruption.
Friendship and Betrayal
Device Explanation Irony The irony in Noodles betraying his friends, only to be betrayed by Max, highlights the theme . Flashback Flashbacks reveal the deep bond and eventual betrayal among the characters.
The Passage of Time
Device Explanation Motif The recurring motif of clocks and timepieces emphasizes the relentless march of time. Juxtaposition The juxtaposition of past and present scenes underscores how time changes the characters.
The American Dream
Device Explanation Allegory The rise and fall of the characters serve as an allegory for the American dream’s corruption. Symbolism Objects like the suitcase of money symbolize the elusive nature of the American dream.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Flashback Non-linear editing The film’s non-linear structure allows for seamless integration of flashbacks. Symbolism Visual motifs Visual symbols like clocks and bridges reinforce thematic elements. Irony Juxtaposition in editingContrasting scenes highlight the ironic twists in the narrative . Metaphor Cinematography The use of light and shadow enhances the metaphorical aspects of characters and scenes.
Scene Selection
The Opening Scene Watch on YouTube
Breakdown : The film opens with a haunting flashback , setting the tone for the complex narrative structure. This scene uses visual and sound techniques to establish a sense of mystery and foreboding.
Deborah’s Dance Watch on YouTube
Breakdown : Deborah’s dance performance is rich with symbolism and allusion . The scene’s cinematography and music enhance the metaphor of unattainable dreams and lost love.
Max’s Revelation Watch on YouTube
Breakdown : In this pivotal scene, Max’s true intentions are revealed. The use of irony and foreshadowing throughout the film culminates in this moment, with visual cues and dialogue driving the emotional impact.
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
What literary device is primarily used to reveal Noodles’ past?
Which character symbolizes unattainable dreams?
A) Noodles
B) Max
C) Deborah
What motif recurs throughout the film to emphasize the passage of time?
A) Bridges
B) Clocks
C) Money
Which cinematic technique is used to enhance the irony in the film?
A) Non-linear editing
B) Visual motifs
C) Cinematography
The rise and fall of the characters in the film serve as an allegory for what?
A) Friendship
B) The American dream
C) Time
Answers:
A
C
B
A
B
