Lucy Shimmers and the Prince of Peace - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
Lucy's Handmade Book
The book Lucy is creating, titled "Lucy Shimmers and the Prince of Peace," symbolizes her mission and her understanding of the world. It represents her faith in action, as she illustrates the story of Jesus, the "sad man" (Edgar), and herself, mapping out a path of redemption and connection before it even happens.
Lucy is shown working on the book throughout the film, both at home and in the hospital. It is a physical manifestation of her dreams and her divine inspiration, serving as a tool to explain her purpose to the adults around her and eventually to connect with Edgar.
Grandpa Jackson (The Angel)
Grandpa Jackson, who appears to Lucy as an angel, symbolizes divine guidance, comfort, and the connection between the earthly and spiritual realms. He represents the idea that loved ones are still with us and that there is help from a higher power, especially for those with pure faith.
Grandpa Jackson appears only to Lucy, offering her advice, comfort, and even help in her mission to reach Edgar. His presence is a source of confusion for the adults but is a concrete reality for Lucy, validating her unique spiritual sensitivity. He ultimately guides her into the afterlife.
Philosophical Questions
Can childlike faith offer a purer, more effective form of wisdom than adult experience and cynicism?
The film champions this idea through Lucy. Her unwavering and non-judgmental faith allows her to achieve what adults cannot: the transformation of a hardened criminal. While the adults are constrained by societal rules, fear, and prejudice, Lucy operates on a plane of pure belief and love. The film asks the audience to consider whether the cynicism that often comes with age is a barrier to profound human connection and spiritual truth.
What is the nature of sacrifice and is redemption worth the ultimate price?
Lucy's story culminates in the ultimate sacrifice: she gives her life, and her kidney, so that Edgar may live. The film frames this as a triumphant and meaningful act, aligning it with Christian teachings of selfless love. It forces the viewer to confront the weight of this sacrifice, asking whether one person's redemption, even a criminal's, is worth the life of an innocent child. The ending suggests that from a spiritual perspective, such a sacrifice has profound, positive repercussions that outweigh the tragedy.
To what extent should faith override worldly logic and fear?
Lucy's parents, particularly her father, represent the struggle between faith and logic. James's fear for his daughter's safety around Edgar is logical and rational. However, Lucy operates purely on faith, which ultimately proves to be the correct path for achieving a greater good. The film explores this tension, suggesting that true faith often requires setting aside conventional fears and trusting in a divine plan that may not be immediately understandable.
Core Meaning
The central message of "Lucy Shimmers and the Prince of Peace" is about the power of faith, forgiveness, and second chances. Director Rob Diamond aimed to convey a message of hope, love, and forgiveness, particularly in a time of global need. The film posits that no one is beyond redemption and that the simple, non-judgmental love exemplified by a child can be a powerful catalyst for change. Lucy's character embodies the idea that faith is not just a belief system, but an active force that can bring light to the darkest of situations and inspire profound transformation in others. It suggests that miracles can happen when people open their hearts to love and belief, as seen in Edgar's journey from despair to hope.