This "Puss In Boots:The Last Wish" Moment Sticks With Me
Or, how Perrito helped me appreciate the importance of just being present for others
Mild spoiler ahead …
I watched the second Puss In Boots film with my kids the other night. The film was fun, with a compelling enough plot and the subversive humor I expect from the Shrek franchise/DreamWorks.
I won't put the film in the same league as other DreamWorks films, however, one moment in The Last Wish elevated the movie from being a caper film with jokes that went over my kids’ heads to one that captures the depth of human emotion (albeit via talking animals).
During the peak action sequence of the movie, we find Puss frightened and in a state of heightened anxiety. His heart is racing, and he is at his most vulnerable. He feels trapped in both a physical and emotional sense.
Right at this moment, Puss’ new companion, (whom Puss was reluctant to trust and welcome into his life) Perrito, a talking dog, comes over asks what's wrong and proceeds to lay his head on Puss’ lap.
(Image: small cartoon dog with head on cartoon cat’s lap. Cat’s paw is visible on top of dog’s head)
Soon after, Puss reaches his paw out to pet Perrito's head. As he strokes the fur of his friend, Puss’ breathing slows, and he calms down.
This small moment sets the movie up for Puss’ decision at the end of the film and establishes the bond between him and Perrito.
Beyond the film implications, this moment was a beautiful demonstration of empathy and the power of presence.
As I took in this moment, I thought about how I could be more present for those in my life. I was reminded of the value in providing comfort through touch and of how, sometimes, oftentimes, people in distress aren't looking for advice or answers.
Perrito could have rambled on about all the things Puss should do (and he is quite talkative in the movie), instead he takes in the moment and understands what Puss needed was physical comfort and a calming presence.
Being a mother, I have dealt with many difficult moments where my kids’ emotions were running high. During those times, it is so tempting to want to talk them down or explain to them why things will be Okay.
As Perrito reminded me, when someone is in an emotionally stressful state, trying to reason with them doesn't work. They need time and support to regulate themselves so that they can be guided toward a healthy solution.
I haven't checked in with my kids on how they felt about that moment between Puss and Perrito. It may not have registered, or they could have thought it an unnecessary pause in the action. Still, even if it seeped into their subconscious, I am glad they saw an example of empathetic behavior. I respect the filmmakers for valuing emotional intelligence and including this in the movie.