"Fearless lives forever."
Bohemian Rhapsody - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
Freddie's Teeth
Freddie's prominent teeth, which he was self-conscious about, symbolize his initial insecurities and his unique, larger-than-life persona. He believed his extra incisors gave him a greater vocal range, thus turning a perceived flaw into a source of his extraordinary talent.
The film makes a point of Freddie's teeth from the beginning. When he first meets Brian May and Roger Taylor, he addresses his overbite. Later, he explains his theory about his vocal range to the band. The prosthetic teeth worn by Rami Malek were a crucial part of his physical transformation into the character.
Cats
Freddie's many cats represent unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of home and normalcy amidst his chaotic life. They are his loyal, non-judgmental family who he showers with affection.
Throughout the film, Freddie is shown to be a devoted cat owner. In various scenes at his home, he is seen talking to and pampering his feline companions. During his phone calls with Mary while on tour, he often asks her to say hello to his cats, highlighting their importance in his life.
The Stage
The stage is a powerful symbol of transformation and liberation for Freddie. It's the one place where the shy and insecure Farrokh Bulsara can fully become the confident, flamboyant, and universally adored Freddie Mercury. It represents his true calling and the source of his power.
The film features numerous concert scenes, from early pub gigs to the massive Live Aid performance. In each instance, the stage is where Freddie is most alive and in his element. The final, extended Live Aid sequence is the ultimate depiction of the stage as his kingdom, where he commands an audience of thousands and solidifies his legendary status.
Philosophical Questions
To what extent does artistic license in a biopic betray the truth of a person's life?
"Bohemian Rhapsody" sparked considerable debate about its historical accuracy. The film alters timelines, composites characters, and simplifies complex relationships to fit a conventional cinematic narrative. This raises the question of whether a film's primary responsibility is to factual accuracy or to capturing the emotional truth and spirit of its subject. The filmmakers and cast have defended their choices as necessary for a dramatic retelling, not a documentary. However, critics argue that these changes, particularly regarding Freddie's AIDS diagnosis and his relationship with the band, distort his legacy and the historical context of the AIDS crisis.
Can one be a public spectacle and a private person simultaneously?
The film portrays a stark contrast between Freddie's flamboyant and confident stage persona and his private struggles with loneliness and identity. It explores the immense pressure faced by celebrities whose personal lives are subject to intense public scrutiny. Freddie's journey highlights the difficulty of navigating authentic personal relationships and self-acceptance while living under the constant gaze of the media and the public, raising questions about the cost of fame and the possibility of maintaining a private self in the public eye.
What is the nature of family, and can a chosen family be as powerful as a biological one?
Freddie's story in the film is a powerful exploration of the concept of family. He struggles to connect with his traditional Parsi family, who disapprove of his lifestyle. In Queen, he finds a surrogate family of fellow "misfits" who understand and support him. The film posits that this chosen family, forged through shared experience and creative passion, is just as, if not more, significant than his family of origin. This is a central theme, culminating in the band's reconciliation and powerful unity at Live Aid.
Core Meaning
"Bohemian Rhapsody" is a celebration of individuality, artistic rebellion, and the enduring power of music to unite people. The director, through the lens of Freddie Mercury's life, explores the complexities of identity, the loneliness that can accompany fame, and the profound importance of finding one's chosen family. The film's core message is about embracing one's true self, even in the face of societal prejudice and personal struggles. It champions the idea of being a misfit and finding a sense of belonging with other outcasts, as Freddie puts it, "We're four misfits who don't belong together, playing for the other misfits." Ultimately, the film is a testament to Freddie Mercury's legacy as a performer who broke conventions and whose music continues to inspire generations.