Why Does Kubo’s Grandfather Want His Eye?
In the animated film “Kubo and the Two Strings,” directed by Travis Knight, the protagonist, Kubo, embarks on a perilous journey to protect his eye from his grandfather, who desires it for reasons shrouded in mystery and ancient tradition. This question, “Why does Kubo’s grandfather want his eye?” is central to the narrative and serves as a driving force behind the story’s progression.
The answer lies in the rich tapestry of folklore and mythology that weaves through the film. Kubo’s grandfather, who once wielded a powerful suit of armor, was cursed by his nemesis, the Moon King, to have his life force extracted from his eyes. This curse left him with a single eye and a desire for the other, which is Kubo’s. The grandfather’s quest for his eye is not merely a personal vendetta but a reflection of the Moon King’s malevolent influence that plagues the land.
The significance of the eye in this context can be attributed to its symbolic representation of life, power, and vision. In many cultures, the eye is associated with sight and perception, which are crucial for navigating the world and making decisions. By seeking Kubo’s eye, the grandfather aims to regain his former strength and restore balance to the world, which has been disrupted by the Moon King’s tyranny.
Moreover, the grandfather’s desire for his eye is intertwined with the theme of legacy and identity. Throughout the film, Kubo grapples with his own identity, questioning who he is and where he belongs. The grandfather’s quest for his eye is a manifestation of his own struggle to reclaim his identity and restore his place in the world. In this sense, the eye becomes a symbol of the grandfather’s lost self and his longing for redemption.
However, the film also explores the complexities of family relationships and the sacrifices made for love. Kubo’s grandmother, who was forced to hide the grandfather’s curse from him, represents the weight of family secrets and the pain that comes with them. The grandmother’s decision to keep the truth hidden from Kubo reflects her love for him and her desire to protect him from the dangers that await him.
In conclusion, the question of why Kubo’s grandfather wants his eye is deeply rooted in the film’s exploration of themes such as power, identity, family, and sacrifice. The grandfather’s quest for his eye is a manifestation of his own struggles and the curses that have befallen him, as well as a reflection of the larger narrative of the Moon King’s tyranny. Through Kubo’s journey, the film raises profound questions about the nature of family, the importance of identity, and the power of love and sacrifice.
