In 2024, I reviewed Enemy Mine. This is less a review and more of an addendum to that earlier piece - an allegory for tolerance but it is also rather pointed in its criticism of the way different cultures memorialise and preserve their sense of identity and history.
When we are introduced to Davidge, he sees the Dracs in purely black and white terms. He does not recognise them as sentient beings with their own culture or traditions.
Not only does Davidge have to break this assumption, he is forced to realise how little he knows of his own roots. He is able to provide a brief rundown of his parents, but nothing more.
Davidge is singularly disinterested in dwelling on the past, or looking into the future.
Jerry’s culture is based around lineage and remembering where you came from. When he knows he is dying, the urgent task he gives to Davidge is to memorise Jerry’s family, back over 500 generations, so that their child can know their history and be accepted by the Dracs.
Rather than the action packed rescue that precedes it, the film’s final catharsis is based on recalling this lineage, on Davidge supporting his adopted son to reintegrate with his people by reciting Jerry’s family line.
Not only has Davidge upheld his pledge to his friend, but he has found a greater sense of purpose and growth.
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