FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN
- Madhukar Dama
- Mar 28
- 2 min read
"Duel," the 1971 TV movie directed by Steven Spielberg, offers a gripping narrative that can teach viewers several valuable lessons. It’s a minimalist thriller about a businessman, David Mann (played by Dennis Weaver), who is relentlessly pursued by a menacing truck driver on a remote highway. Here’s what you can take away from it:
1. The Power of the Unknown: The film never reveals the truck driver’s face or motives, amplifying the tension through mystery. This teaches that fear often stems from what we don’t understand, and sometimes the lack of explanation is more unsettling—and thought-provoking—than a clear answer.
2. Resilience Under Pressure: David Mann starts as an everyman, not a hero, but he’s forced to tap into his resourcefulness and courage to survive. It’s a lesson in how ordinary people can rise to extraordinary challenges when pushed to their limits.
3. The Danger of Escalation: The conflict begins with a seemingly trivial act—overtaking a slow-moving truck—and spirals into a life-or-death chase. It’s a reminder of how small actions or misunderstandings can escalate unpredictably, urging caution in how we interact with others, even strangers.
4. Symbolism of Modern Life: The truck, a faceless, unstoppable force, can be seen as a metaphor for the impersonal threats of modern society—whether it’s technology, bureaucracy, or aggression. The film invites reflection on how we navigate a world where we’re often at the mercy of forces beyond our control.
5. Trust Your Instincts: Mann initially doubts the severity of the situation, trying to rationalize the trucker’s behavior. His eventual survival hinges on trusting his gut and taking decisive action. It’s a lesson in listening to intuition when something feels off.
6. Cinematic Storytelling: From a craft perspective, "Duel" showcases how tension can be built with minimal dialogue, strong visuals, and pacing. Spielberg’s use of the barren highway and the truck as a character in itself highlights the power of simplicity in storytelling.
Ultimately, "Duel" is both a pulse-pounding survival tale and a deeper exploration of human nature, fear, and perseverance. It’s a masterclass in turning a simple premise into something universally resonant.