This was a bit risky, I mean I know Algren wanted to prove a point and assumed that the guy would miss which he did, but what if he actually got him? He could've got shot in the head or anywhere. Was this because he kind of didn't care whether he died or not anyway because he was mentally imbalanced, or does anyone have a different view on this scene?
shareHe strongly suspected the guy would miss. He also longed for death and in the second before the rifle is fired Algren says to himself, "shoot me damn you,'. Nathan believes he may deserve death due to his part to play in the Indian massacres.
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Yup - this:
He also longed for death and in the second before the rifle is fired Algren says to himself, "shoot me damn you,'.
Algren knew that the guy would most likely miss but didn't care if guy actually shot him because Algren didn't value his own life. It's similar to Mel Gibson's character in Lethal Weapon who isn't afraid of the drug dealer shooting him.
shareAgree. After the guy missed, I was trying to determine the expression on Algren's face -- one of relief or disappointment?
shareAldren could no longer live with what he had done, he was perfecty prepared to die...
"I do what I say and I say what I mean"
Like others have said, he wasnt completely opposed to being shot.
But other than that, it was a very powerful message that he instilled in those who were watching. Who could doubt his confidence or bravery or knowledge after seeing that?
I think it was his way of letting fate decide. Despite the most guilty conscience some people just don't have the courage to take their own life.
I've had a lot of sobering thoughts in my time Del Boy, it's them that started me drinking!
Interesting question! I think it was definitely a suicidal gesture, you can feel his pain. A phenomenal scene, one of the best for me.
shareI agree it was very risky. Even if someone is not accurate with a gun. Standing strait in front of someone not moving, there is a decent chance he'd hit him.
But like others have said, he probably didn't care if he got shot that much since he felt guilty about what he had done in the past.
Risky Business....what a coincidence!!
Keith Moon was the greatest 'Keith Moon Style' drummer ever!!share