Manderlay

Audience emotional responses are dominated by a profound sense of Sadness and Melancholy as Grace's well-intentioned but naive social experiment to abolish slavery at Manderlay unravels, revealing the complexities and inherent flaws in human nature and societal structures. Empathy is felt for both the initially enslaved individuals and for Grace as she grapples with the harsh realities and her own disillusionment. Strong feelings of Anger and Disgust arise from the depiction of slavery and the subsequent selfish and fickle behavior of the 'freed' people, as well as Grace's initial arrogance. Confusion and Anxiety reflect the audience's struggle to comprehend the unexpected outcomes and the tension of the unfolding social chaos. The film's themes are often Disturbing, challenging simplistic notions of freedom and progress.