''We're all very aware of what you are'' :Lack of empathy in 'Grouty' from Porridge- a cold and callous world.

A brief analysis of a short scene from the film version of the t.v series Porridge, which i thought was quite clever and showed a high level of thought from the production.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xOldHAIXXo&fbclid=IwAR3DJ9SM33wToJWIhgeyAgXna7ja5EoSd3XNircOHBlhHauyyiuqAkeBhxs


Peter Vaugn, you might remember him from GoT, but he had a long career before that, and was extremely talented (watch him on Our Friends In The North) . In the British t.v series Porridge he plays  Harry 'Grouty' Grout a psychopathic gang leader with enormous pull in the prison. When he leans on lifelong criminal Fletch to hustle him in some passports apropos a prison break, its an interesting insight in to an actors take on a character. Grouty has no time for positive emotions, he rips open the envelope like he's carving up a victim, and the letter he discards might contain a sentiment but he dismisses such humanity.
Is the Sandra referred to his lover ( who else would be trusted).
Grouty refers to her as a 'smart bird' and Fletch as a 'Dab hand', all he can see in others is how useful they are, respecting only the ability to manipulate or bully. And true to form he wastes no time in intimidating Fletch again for more favours. After all, every relationship is a means to an end: a 'successful venture'.

Secondary analysis.

• The X ray sign above the first scene in the hospital used ironically since two of the people present are being less than honest. 
• Prison Officer Mr Barraclough's kindness in getting Fletch a cup of coffee and taking the gift from the 'Doctor' at face value  shows his humanity (though some might say naivety in the nativity ).
• Posters on the wall encouraging acts of seasonal charity, 'The gift of giving' used humorously behind Fletch, since he is a career criminal who steals from others, and as a reflection of the current plot of subterfuge.
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