is an extreme example of people beyond hope of recovery clinging to each
other out of desperation. Thus, it’s not surprising that the film offers a vivid
illustration of Sartrean relationships. Aside from extreme examples like this,
though, is the give-and-take required of all normal relationships as
dehumanizing as Sartre suggests?

4. Another key feature of Sartre’s existentialism is that we are free and
responsible for our choices, and we can’t place blame for our behavior on
socially-determined factors. When we do place the blame on outside forces,
Sartre argues, we are engaged in self-deception. Both characters in the film
feel trapped into their respective lifestyles, and unable to act otherwise
even to save their lives. Are Ben and Sera examples of Sartrean self-
deception, or is there entrapment genuine and thus refute Sartre’s notion
of human freedom?

5. Suppose that Ben and Sera are not trapped into their respective lives,
but instead embrace their choices to die a drunk and to be a prostitute.
Does this give their life meaning in the same way that, for example a
believer finds meaning by following God’s plan, or Gandhi found meaning by
helping others?

http://www.utm.edu/research/philfilms/