MovieChat Forums > Sling Blade (1997) Discussion > Was Doyle bipolar?

Was Doyle bipolar?

posted 9 years ago by Degree7
2 replies | jump to latest

In reference to the scene where Linda lets him back into the house, Doyle almost seems sincerely apologetic for a few seconds to wards Frank for the way he acted. It's almost like he knows his behaviour is bad, but when his mood changes he becomes a different person. And then not long after he gives a pretty faithful apology, he suddenly reverts back to his evil self by saying "but I got nothin to apologize for to queers and retards...." And then he checks himself and says "I know I shouldn't say that."

It's a very darkly hunourous scene, but it seems like Doyle has a Jekyl and Hyde thing going on that doesn't appear normal. I think Doyle had some mental health issues, in addition to being a drunk, and probably wasn't that different from Karl.

~ I'm a 21st century man and I don't wanna be here.

[–] romefan123 9 years ago

Can't really find much positive in him. Most characters from Hannibal Lector to Captain Bligh have some redeeming qualities--not Doyle, he's one-dimensional. He may be the most contemptible character in the history of film.

His apology is flat, rehearsed, and sounds like he's done that many times. Linda too...is she contemptible, as sweet as she is...since she doesn't seem to truly protect Frank? It's a fair question to ask. I like her, but part of me thinks her weakness is repulsive given the situation and the magnitude.

Look how quickly (4 minutes?) that she allowed Carl to be in her garage...?

"Hey...I like that...I like that!!" Terry Silver Karate Kid III

[–] gottaluvafriend 8 years ago

No, not bipolar. Doyle is the typical alcoholic who gets mean when he's drunk. His mental health issues are just typical "redneck" prejudices.