Across the Universe

This clip illustrates the chaos that existed at the time of the Vietnam War. The melancholy colors in the background of the scenes contrasts with the intense red color of the strawberries and paint. This provides a juxtaposition between the subdued lives of the general public as they experience the war as outsiders looking in, against the violence and bloodshed that is going on else where.

The scene where the man is using drugs illustrates how they provided a smoke screen (pun intended) to shield people from their worries and stresses - almost making it acceptable. People sought sanctuary through the use of drugs by escaping the harsh realities of the times.

The scene where the man pins the strawberries on the wall represents the wounded bodies on the battle field. The constant use of the color red throughout the clip, especially in the form of paint splatters, represents how strongly the war influenced every aspect of life, including art. His inner struggles lead to an emotional catharsis as he aggressively splatters red paint all over the room, signifying his anger and frustration.