Belonging is a term that denotes the association and identification of an individual with a group of people who have similar ideologies. The need to belong would seem like a natural human need. By not belonging the individual may challenge the nature of the community and may lead to changes in the community. In the film “Strictly Ballroom” directed by Baz Luhrman 1992, shows the concept of belonging and not belonging through the contrast of characters, cultures and the use of a variety of genre. Similarly the children’s book “The Ugly Duckling” published by Hans Christian Anderson shows the concept of belonging and not belonging through language techniques, characters and the use of imagery.
Strictly Ballroom is a film which explores the problems which arise when belonging is forced on false values of enforced conformity. The Red Curtain at the opening shows the audience that they are entering a non-realistic world. The scene starts of at the Waratah Championships; It is here Scott dares to dance his own steps. His mother Shirley, and dance coach Les Kendall try to prevent him from exploring his individuality afraid that those who value tradition of the “Ballroom World” will not accept him. The traditional world of ballroom dancing gives them a sense of belonging, and they do not wish to change that.
Not belonging can lead to long term consequences. We see this in the children’s book “the Ugly Duckling” published by Hans Christian Anderson. As we follow the journey of a little duck that everyone treats differently as he stands out from the rest, who tries everything to fit in. “the Ugly duckling” shows us that our world is not perfect. That society needs to change their views on how we accept and reject