The term “Beast of Burden” often refers to a workhorse or a creature that carries heavy loads, typically used in the context of animals. But if you’re referring to “Beast of Burden” in the realm of film, you might be asking about the 2018 action-thriller “Beast of Burden” or how the phrase has been used in other movies. Let’s explore the film and how the concept of a “beast of burden” has appeared in popular cinema.
1. Beast of Burden (2018)
First, let’s dive into “Beast of Burden”, the 2018 movie that features the title prominently. This film, starring Daniel Radcliffe, is a gripping action thriller that centers around a pilot named Sean Haggerty. Sean is tasked with smuggling drugs for a cartel, but things take a turn when he is forced to make a dangerous decision in the air while being pursued by law enforcement and criminals. The movie is known for its tense, high-stakes plot and unique setting, with much of the action taking place in the cockpit of a small plane.
While “Beast of Burden” refers more to the main character’s internal struggles and the burdens he carries, the title itself is metaphorically linked to his difficult circumstances. The film has gained attention for Radcliffe’s performance, offering a stark contrast to his famous role in the “Harry Potter” series. It’s a thrilling ride for fans of action and crime dramas, but the term “beast of burden” itself doesn’t exactly correlate to an animal or a physical burden—it represents the weight of Sean’s choices and the consequences he faces.
2. The Phrase “Beast of Burden” in Other Films
Beyond the 2018 movie, the concept of a “beast of burden” has appeared in various forms throughout cinema. The phrase itself is often used to describe an animal, typically a mule, donkey, or ox, that is made to carry heavy loads. Here are a few movies where animals take on this role or where the concept is explored:
- The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001–2003)
In the epic fantasy world of “The Lord of the Rings”, beasts of burden are integral to the story. Animals like horses and ponies are used to carry supplies for the journey through Middle Earth. Specifically, Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins rely on Sam’s pony, Bill to carry their burdens through harsh terrains on their way to Mount Doom. While not explicitly called “beasts of burden” in the story, these animals perform that very function, assisting in the physical journey of the characters. - The Mule (2018)
Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, “The Mule” tells the story of a man who becomes a drug courier for a cartel in his later years. While the title of the film doesn’t directly reference “beast of burden,” the main character’s role of carrying the cartel’s illegal cargo can be seen as a metaphorical parallel. The term “mule” itself, in both literal and figurative senses, is a type of beast of burden. - The Journey of the White Horse (1999)
This independent film about an ancient horse carrying the burden of transporting messages offers a more literal interpretation of beasts of burden in a historical context. The story involves animals working tirelessly, reflecting the symbolic weight they carry in their service to humans. - Babe (1995)
In this charming family film, the pig Babe proves that even the most unlikely animals can perform tasks traditionally done by beasts of burden. While it’s more about the emotional growth of the character, Babe’s role in managing farm life and helping others showcases the animal’s unexpected strength and utility.
3. The Symbolism of Beasts of Burden in Cinema
In many films, the “beast of burden” is more than just an animal carrying physical loads—it often represents the weight of the emotional or societal burdens that characters must carry. Whether it’s through the metaphor of a donkey carrying bags of supplies, or a character physically or mentally weighed down by their responsibilities, the concept of the beast of burden is used to explore deeper themes.
The phrase can reflect a character’s struggles, whether internal or external. This is why you’ll often see it referenced in stories of endurance, sacrifice, or redemption. In the case of the 2018 film “Beast of Burden”, the protagonist himself becomes a metaphorical beast of burden, shouldering the consequences of his past decisions while being forced into a dangerous situation beyond his control.
Conclusion
The term “Beast of Burden” has been used in different ways across cinema, from literal depictions of animals carrying heavy loads to more metaphorical representations of human struggles. In the 2018 film “Beast of Burden”, it directly relates to the weight of the character’s criminal actions and choices, while in other films, the idea is explored through animals and humans alike. Whether in epic fantasies like “The Lord of the Rings”, or heartwarming stories like “Babe”, animals often take on the role of carrying burdens—both physical and emotional—emphasizing the themes of sacrifice, responsibility, and resilience.
So, while “Beast of Burden” has appeared in specific movies like the 2018 thriller, it also serves as a broader cultural concept in films across genres, illustrating how both literal and figurative burdens shape the stories we watch.