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Julie-MIT's picture

RE: the dynamics of men vs. women

I also saw the portrayal of men falling victim to women as a pretty negative image. It almost seemed as if they couldn't be blamed for their sexual promiscuity--Ruby the "vixen" conned them into each act. What I found even more amusing was the fact that they eventually were "numbered" through the virus. It was an interesting take on Ruby's exploits by showing that they were no more than just numbers to her--even when she stored their "tea" by date and picture (an image common to explaining men's sexual exploits). Also, the fact that the men became infertile with the virus almost seemed like a hidden message to men about the dangers of just acting upon their sexual desires.

It was also interesting to see who Ruby pursued--never the strong men who seemed confident in themselves--rather those who were more nervous and unsure/less experienced. It didn't mean, however, that she didn't want to pursue more "dominant" men--she tried in one point in the movie but was rejected and had to go back to the more nervous man.

While Ruby did have some agency by exerting control over men, she did not have complete control to choose exactly those she wanted. In the end however, she was able to find the perfect man for her--almost showing that even beyond her dependence upon sperm, she also had a natural dependence to be loved by a man.

I also found it quite strange that they used old black and white romantic movies to ready Ruby each time before she went out. Almost allegorically showing that she would eventually search for true love of sorts and that she also was still under the power of men. When considering Ruby, or Rosetta, singularly, they seem to be dependent upon a man's love--either through passion first or lust after.

The only way that I can see the SRA's as being independent and having agency is when considering them as extensions of Rosetta's personality--they show the desires that she often quells and is unable to act upon within her constricted role as a woman and also a research scientist.

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