Crash Essay Questions

Does Haggis represent racism and prejudice differently? If so, what are the differences between how these topics are depicted?

Prejudice is when a person judges another based on preconceived notions rather than genuine observation and judgment. Racism is the system that allows a racial group that is in power to maintain their position and their practices. These differences shape the actions and motivations of the characters in the film. In this regard, racism is most evident in the depiction of the LAPD and its officers—most notably, Ryan and Hansen—who wield institutional power. Although he sees himself as a progressive liberal, District Attorney Rick Cabot also demonstrates racist attitudes in his position of power. Prejudice, on the other hand, ironically unifies all of the film’s main actors. Farhad and Kim Lee are prejudiced against Latinxs. Anthony and Peter express their prejudices against Asian people. Detective Waters also demonstrates his prejudice against people of Latinx heritage.

What lessons can we extrapolate from Officer Hansen’s storyline? How does his character inform us about racism and tolerance among the youngest generation of Americans?

Hansen views himself as morally upstanding and racially progressive. To a certain extent, he aims to change the racist behavior of the LAPD and distance himself from his expressively bigoted partner. However, as the story unfolds, we find that Officer Hansen is ultimately no different than Officer Ryan. His complicity during Christine Thayer’s assault shapes him into an enemy. In the car with Peter, Hansen fails to “practice what he preaches.” Although he sees himself as well-intentioned, Hansen ultimately fails to educate himself and unlearn society’s racist attitudes. Due to his lack of self-examination, Hansen commits a crime that he has tried so hard to avoid.

Pick one example of irony in Crash. How does this instance of irony deepen the plot?

The irony of seeking justice drives many of the plot’s actions. Though many of the film’s characters aim to pursue justice, they do so in unjust ways. For example, as a Persian man living in America, Farhad has been made to feel marginalized and discriminated against. He has learned that the systems which are supposedly in place to protect him do not bring him justice. Farhad seeks to take justice into his own hands, and he aims to avenge Daniel at gunpoint. When he finds that his gun is filled with blanks rather than bullets, Farhad is awakened to his foolishness. In the aftermath of his attempted attack, he is left to grapple with the concept of justice and reflect upon his perpetuation of unjust behavior.

Haggis deliberately emphasizes Christianity throughout the plot. How does religious imagery further dramatize the film’s storyline?

The theme of religion runs strongly throughout the film. Firstly, it is significant that the film takes place in Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels. Angels appear as the film continues, most notably when Farhad refers to Lara as his “guardian angel.” Additionally, many of the characters' names bear religious significance. Peter, John, and Thomas are the names of three of the Twelve Apostles. In addition, the name Christine literally translates to “follower of Christ.” Further, the religious iconography of Saint Christopher remains an important symbol throughout the plot. Lastly, the film’s lighting and score evokes a religious tone. Both music choice and the manipulation of lighting are particularly evident in the film’s opening scene and during Farhad’s confrontation with Daniel.

What emotions do the characters in Crash exhibit, and what role do emotions serve throughout the plot?

The two most common emotions that appear throughout Crash are anger and shame. Anger is especially ubiquitous in Crash—it is depicted not only as a reaction, but as a motivating action for many of the character’s choices. Instead of acting upon their emotional impulses in a rational way, many of the film’s characters displace their anger onto other vulnerable members of society. For example, Officer Ryan, who is aggravated by his father’s deteriorating condition, takes out his anger on healthcare representative Shaniqua Johnson. After voicing his hatred of African Americans to Johnson, Ryan uses his power to harass and violate other African American characters—most notably, Christine Thayer. Additionally, Farhad’s anger concerning his destroyed store culminates in Daniel’s attack.

Many of the film’s characters experience feelings of shame. For example, Cameron Thayer’s behavior in the workplace demonstrates that he is ashamed of his blackness. Following his passivity during his wife’s attack, we learn that Cameron is also ashamed of his idleness. Later, as he returns the gun to Anthony following the attempted carjacking, Cameron expresses that he is “ashamed” of Anthony’s criminal activities. Furthermore, Detective Waters feels shame when his mother repeatedly tells him of his negligent behavior. However, rather than confront their shame headfirst, both Thayer and Waters keep their feelings buried within. It is only in extreme circumstances that the characters reach their breaking points and admit their emotional vulnerabilities.