Introduction

Understanding interpersonal communication is a critical aspect that enables passing of information from one person to another. It is prudent that we recognize the different barriers to ensure that we realize efficient information transfer. There are various theories and concepts related to interpersonal communication. Issues of interpersonal communication competence are of great importance in achieving of intended communication objectives.  It is also important to understand communication behaviors that are essential to interpersonal competence.  In this paper, we will discuss at length different concepts and theories critical to interpersonal communication. On this note, we will have a key analysis of the film “The Blind Side” where we will understand interpersonal communication themes.

Film analysis

“The Blind Side” is a film directed by John Lee Hancock.  It is a story of Michael Oher who was a traumatized boy who became an American footballer despite the many challenges he faced in life. The film has several stars such as Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Kim Dickens, Jay Head and Adrian Lenox just to mention a few.   The film is directed Mark Livolsi and produced by Alcon Entertainment. The film has received several awards such as Academy Awards, critic’s choice award, golden globe awards and people’s choice award among others. It is imperative to note that the film was received with applause from a majority of the viewers. Nevertheless, the film was also criticized for certain reasons. For instance, it is criticized for using a white person to adopt a black American who was unable to overcome poverty. Others argued that it supported the infamous submission of the African-American submission to the whites. Michael Oher is a great character in the film since through him we can discuss theories and concepts of interpersonal communication.

IP theories and concepts

The first concept clearly observed from the film “The Blind Side” is the interpersonal communication conflict. Michael is adopted by a white woman, and he is a black American. The two people were from different cultures, and it would be difficult for them to communicate effectively. It is worth noting that Oher’s interaction with his new family and also in school was not that friendly. From the film, it is evident that he is avoided by fellow students when he goes to school for the first time.

Types of love are another critical concept of interpersonal communication that is very clear in the film. Ann Tuohy is criticized by her friends and peers for interacting with the poor black boy.  After adopting the poor Michael, the lady calls him her son who does not augur well with other white people within the region. However, the lady discards the mocking and tells them of the importance of fostering family ties. From Michael’s point of view, his passion for learning is not compromised by his poverty nature or his little academic status.  His determination for success makes him successful sports, educational and socially.

Another important concept about interpersonal communication is the different stages of relationships. There are different levels of relationship between Michael and Tuohy and also between him and his teachers. For instance, Oher felt that the world was harsh to him for denying him an opportunity to realize his dreams of becoming a footballer. This is stage three where where friendship moves close towards friendship and they want to spend more time close to one another. Ann never believed that Oher would make it in life as a result of his low academic qualifications. Nevertheless, she decided to give him an opportunity, and he became successful. We can also note a good relationship with Tuohy when Michael complains of a place, and Tuohy decides to give him a bedroom.

From the teachers’ perspective, we can learn that the two teachers had excellent interpersonal communication with Oher and Tuohy. This was very critical as it made life easy for Michael to learn and achieve his objectives. The issue of relationship development is the award-winning theme in the film. The story revolves adoption of a poor black boy to a white family. The family integrates well where Sean junior and Michael are seen with a brotherhood spirit. Collins, the son of Tuohy, refers to Michael as a brother to the disbelief of his friends. Michael became an integral part of the Tuohy’s family that was unexpected by most of the people.

Conclusion

From the film analysis, it is clear that there are several interpersonal communication principles among other genres such as comedy, sports, drama, and adaptation. The different interpersonal communication concepts are as a result of different in age, race, economic and education backgrounds of the characters. Producers of this film tried level best to express these concepts throughout the film. He has been able to use Michael Oher effectively to bring out the interpersonal communication themes. Although, “The Blind Side” is a good film for analysis to understand relationships and interpersonal communication, I would also recommend “His Girl Friday” for analysis. This is a critical movie where interpersonal communication and relations have been expressed in depth.

Work cited

Adler, Ronald B, George R Rodman, and Carrie Cropley. Understanding Human Communication. New York: Oxford University Press, 2012. Print.

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