Concepts such as wealth inequality form an integral part of our society, a reality that confronts us daily and, of course, our students as well.
From a tender age, our students begin to observe the stark divisions within our society – the ones who drive the car, the ones who are driven in the car, the ones who clean the car, the ones who refuel the car, the ones who own the car brand, the ones who attempt to steal the car, and the ones who protect the car. Though these individuals may appear similar, they dress, speak, and eat differently. How then, can they all be part of the same society?
A thought-provoking short film by Satyajit Ray titled “Two” explored this very question six decades ago. This film tells the story of two boys living side by side, belonging to different families yet sharing similar interests. These two boys serve as a reflection of the reality of our divided society, highlighting how they accommodate and coexist with one another.
“Two” is a twelve-minute silent film, part of the esteemed Satyajit Ray Collection of the Academy, which includes 18 feature films directed by Ray and preserved by the Archive.
This short film can serve as a catalyst for meaningful discussions on wealth inequality within your academic setting. It vividly portrays the human experience, shedding light on the impact of the wealth gap on the most vulnerable individuals who adapt their actions based on their surroundings.
Through its subtle narrative, the film also offers a poignant commentary on the social intolerance that exists between individuals from different socioeconomic classes, revealing the role that monetary satisfaction plays in these dynamics.