Blog Entry #5

In Brian Gallagher's article "I love you too" Sexual Warfare and Homoeroticism in Billy Wilder's Double Indemnity, Gallagher constructively breaks down every insinuation made by James M. Cain and Billy Wilder in their novel and film Double Indemnity. This writer did extensive research on exploring this subject and the supportive sources he uses gives his credibility for his argument. The information Gallagher provided in this article brings to light that the story is told by a wounded Walter, suggesting that perhaps Walter's story is biased and even jaded. If Walter had not been shot prior to the confession, maybe his thoughts of the femme fatale character would be different. Gallagher argues that death is associated with heterosexuality and homoeroticism. Phyllis has blocked the connection between Walter and Barton, though when she dies there is no longer any obstacles preventing the two from their bond to one another. It is when Walter is dying, he is then comforted by his friend Barton. If there is any connection I believe it is only friendship, if there was any homoeroticism between Water and Barton why was it never acted upon prior to these events. The two have known each other for over ten years and nothing has come about the two before the meeting of Phyllis. The author suggests that the film is more complex than the novel, which I strongly disagree with. I thought the film made the story so much simpler to offer no confusion to the audience, yet the novel plays off the readers imagination, creating endless possibilities and viewpoints.Though I like Gallagher's idea of sexual alliances placed in the story to reflect the war which took place during the making of the film.