Paris, Texas left me honestly confused as to the plot or story being conveyed. It was more of an image being portrayed through Travis' journey through the wilderness. The opening scene almost served as a microcosm for Travis' prior life. Travis is portrayed wearing a suit, which is tattered, his beard was unkempt, and he was wearing a red ball cap. He runs out of water, walking through the desert, presumably for days or even weeks.
We later learn his life story and the trauma which he faced, when his self-destructive tendencies and alcoholism ruined his family. His trauma has left him feeling extreme guilt and uses his journey as one to avoid contact with humans; he is a runner. He does not make contact with others, walks in a line that is not following any major paths or roads, or any type of specific order.
The use of cinematography does far more to progress the plot than the dialogue, as Travis is a man who has faced a trauma, which he does not wish to discuss. We later learn from his interactions at the strip club his life story. The story of his falling in love too soon, having a child, and being unable to support a family, his life flying out of control, and his later descent into insanity.
The scene showed in class with the mountains portrays more of Travis' inner character. The mountain behind Travis is rugged, wild, and nontraditional. The mountain behind his brother is more stable, solid, and traditional. Travis is one who does not conform, and who hashes out his raw emotion in his journey. He avoids contact with society, and develops his character in seclusion.
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