Camila Cen, G10, RDF International School

“There are all kinds of people in this world. It happens that we have become friends. This is not fate. It is just that we should be friends.”

This line is the most important message for me from the 2019 Academy Awards best film winner “Green Book,” in which Don Shirley, a refined Afro-American classical musician, and Frank “Tony Lip” Vallelonga, a Caucasian working-class driver, meet by chance and embark on a concert tour together through the American South. With different cultural backgrounds and values, the two protagonists often have conflicts due to misunderstandings. They get along better as the journey continues and they gradually begin to see things from each other’s perspective. Finally, they overcome the racial barriers and cultural differences to become good friends.

Racial discrimination has always been an issue in the history of the United States and remains a problem even today. “Green Book” approaches the subject matter with humor and compassion through a unique story of two people of different races and backgrounds developing an unlikely friendship. In the beginning, Tony the chauffeur treats Shirley the pianist rudely because he hated the latter for being wealthy and arrogant. He takes a liking to Shirley after watching him perform so skillfully. He even stands up for Shirley who has been treated unfairly because of the color of his skin.

During the journey, Shirley also has a gradual influence on Tony with his politeness and civilized manners. In one scene, Shirley helps Tony to write beautiful and passionate letters to his wife, who is much impressed. On the other hand, Tony helps Shirley to resolve troubles with the police and takes him to a bar to perform for common folk, where they both spend an unforgettable night.

Their story reminds me of a famous quote from the 1997 film “Good Will Hunting,” where talented psychologist Sean Maguire says “You’re not perfect … this girl you’ve met, she’s not perfect either. But the question is whether or not you’re perfect for each other.”

A good relationship, be it romantic or friendly, depends on the willingness to reach out to people and accept different views.

“Green Book” teaches me to be tolerant and open-minded when meeting people with different cultural backgrounds. This way, we will enjoy beautiful relationships in a colorful world.