Snowpiercer is a riveting post-apocalyptic dystopian film directed by Bong Joon-ho and based on the French graphic novel series “Le Transperceneige” by Jacques Lob, Benjamin Legrand, and Jean-Marc Rochette.
The story unfolds on a massive train called Snowpiercer, which perpetually circles the globe through a frozen wasteland of Earth’s last remnants. The passengers aboard the train are segregated by social class, with the wealthy living in luxury at the front and the poor crammed into squalor at the tail.
The narrative follows Curtis Everett, played by Chris Evans, as he leads a revolution to challenge the oppressive regime controlling the train.
The film’s unique visual style and compelling story have garnered a dedicated fan base, leading to the creation of a television series and sparking intense discussions about its themes and characters.
This article will provide a comprehensive exploration of the world of Snowpiercer, delving into its comic origins, memorable characters, and fascinating behind-the-scenes details. Along the way, we’ll also discuss the film’s impact on popular culture and its potential for future adaptations.
Comic Summary of Le Transperceneige
Le Transperceneige, the original French graphic novel series, first published in 1982, was created by writer Jacques Lob and artist Jean-Marc Rochette. The series consists of three volumes: “Le Transperceneige,” “L’arpenteur,” and “La traversée,” with the latter two written by Benjamin Legrand after Lob’s death in 1990.
The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a failed climate experiment has caused a devastating ice age, and the last survivors of humanity are confined to a gigantic train called the Snowpiercer.
The comic explores themes of class struggle, social injustice, and the human will to survive. The train is divided into various sections, each representing a different social class, with the wealthy living in opulence at the front while the poor suffer in cramped, unsanitary conditions at the back.
The story follows Proloff, a passenger from the tail of the train who becomes entangled in a dangerous journey to the front while discovering the dark secrets that keep the train running.
Jacques Lob: Biography and Notable Works
Jacques Lob, born in 1932, was a French comic book creator known for his work in the science fiction and fantasy genres.
He began his career in comics in the 1960s, and his first notable work was “Submerman,” a marine adventure series published in the French magazine Pilote. In the 1970s, Lob worked on several acclaimed series, including “Delirius,” “Superdupont,” and “La Planí¨te des singes.”
His most famous work, “Le Transperceneige,” was a collaboration with artist Jean-Marc Rochette and garnered critical acclaim for its imaginative world-building and thought-provoking themes.
After Lob’s death in 1990, Benjamin Legrand continued the series, writing two additional volumes. Lob’s legacy as a visionary storyteller and his influence on the science fiction genre continue to be felt through the success and admiration of the Snowpiercer film and television adaptations.
Snowpiercer (2013) Movie Summary and Adaptations
The 2013 film adaptation of Snowpiercer, directed by Bong Joon-ho and starring Chris Evans, Tilda Swinton, and Song Kang-ho, took the core story of the graphic novel and expanded upon it with additional characters and subplots.
The movie follows Curtis Everett, a passenger from the tail section of the train, who leads a group of rebels on a dangerous mission to overthrow the oppressive regime controlling the train.
The film adaptation deviates from the original comic in several ways, such as the addition of the character Mason, played by Tilda Swinton, and the inclusion of a subplot involving a mysterious message hidden in protein bars.
The movie also introduces the concept of the train’s creator, Wilford, who is portrayed as a godlike figure and serves as the primary antagonist. Despite these changes, the film remains faithful to the source material’s themes of social inequality and the struggle for survival.
Parent Guide to Snowpiercer
Snowpiercer is a dark, intense film with scenes of violence, strong language, and mature themes, making it unsuitable for young children. The movie is rated R for violence, language, and drug content, and it’s recommended for viewers aged 17 and older.
Parents should be aware that the film contains graphic depictions of violence, including hand-to-hand combat, shootings, and brutal beatings. There are also scenes of drug use, and the film’s themes of social inequality and class struggle may be challenging for younger viewers to grasp.
For parents interested in introducing their children to the world of Snowpiercer, the graphic novel series may be a more appropriate starting point. However, it’s essential to note that the comic also contains mature themes and some violent imagery, so parental discretion is advised.
When and Where Snowpiercer Takes Place
Snowpiercer takes place in the not-too-distant future, around the year 2031, approximately 17 years after a catastrophic attempt to combat global warming goes awry, plunging the Earth into a new ice age.
The planet’s surface is rendered uninhabitable, with temperatures plummeting to lethal levels and all life outside the train presumed extinct.
The entire story unfolds aboard the Snowpiercer, a colossal, self-sustaining train that perpetually circles the globe on a vast, interconnected rail network. The train’s interior is meticulously designed and divided into multiple sections, each representing a different social class and environment.
The front of the train houses the wealthy elite in luxurious accommodations, while the tail section is a cramped, squalid space where the lower classes live in abject poverty. As the protagonists journey through the train, they encounter a variety of unique, visually striking environments that reflect the diverse and stratified society within.
A Guide to Snowpiercer’s Film Locations
Despite the film’s confined setting aboard the Snowpiercer train, the movie was shot in various locations to create the illusion of a vast, interconnected world. The majority of the film was shot in Prague, Czech Republic, at the Barrandov Studios, where the train’s elaborate sets were constructed.
These sets were meticulously designed to give each section of the train a distinct visual identity, from the grimy, industrial tail to the opulent, Art Deco-inspired front.
Additional shooting took place in the Czech Republic, including the Bohemian countryside and various industrial sites, to create the film’s bleak, frozen exterior landscapes.
While it may not be possible to visit the actual Snowpiercer train, fans can explore the diverse locations that inspired the film’s unique aesthetic by traveling to the Czech Republic and visiting the country’s historic cities and striking natural landscapes.
Who’s Who in Snowpiercer: Memorable Characters
The world of Snowpiercer is populated by a diverse cast of memorable characters, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Some of the most notable characters include:
- Curtis Everett (Chris Evans): The film’s protagonist, Curtis is a resourceful and determined leader from the tail section of the train who leads a rebellion against the train’s oppressive regime.
- Mason (Tilda Swinton): A high-ranking official and enforcer of Wilford’s regime, Mason is a cruel and sadistic character who becomes a primary antagonist for the rebels.
- Namgoong Minsoo (Song Kang-ho): A skilled engineer and former drug addict, Namgoong is enlisted by Curtis to help navigate the train’s complex security systems.
- Yona (Go Ah-sung): Namgoong’s resourceful and perceptive daughter, who possesses the ability to predict events before they happen.
- Wilford (Ed Harris): The enigmatic creator of the Snowpiercer train and the primary antagonist of the film, Wilford rules the train with an iron fist and maintains a strict social hierarchy.
Iconic Quotes from Snowpiercer
Snowpiercer is filled with memorable lines that encapsulate the film’s themes and emotions. Some of the most iconic quotes from the movie include:
- “We control the engine, we control the world.” – Curtis Everett
- “You know what I hate about myself? I know what people taste like. I know that babies taste best.” – Gilliam
- “Order is the barrier that holds back the flood of death. We must all of us on this train of life remain in our allotted station.” – Mason
- “The engine is eternal. Yes. The engine is forever. Yes.” – Wilford
The Immersive Soundtrack by Marco Beltrami
The Snowpiercer soundtrack, composed by Marco Beltrami, plays a crucial role in immersing the audience in the film’s bleak, dystopian world.
Beltrami’s score masterfully blends traditional orchestral elements with experimental electronic sounds, creating a unique sonic landscape that reflects the film’s futuristic setting and intense atmosphere.
Notable tracks from the soundtrack include “This is the Beginning,” which plays during the opening credits and sets the tone for the film’s epic journey, and “Seventeen Years Later,” a haunting, atmospheric piece that underscores the passage of time since the world was plunged into an ice age.
“The Battle for the Front” is a thrilling, action-packed track that accompanies the film’s climactic showdown between the rebels and Wilford’s forces.
Curiosities and Behind-the-Scenes Details of Snowpiercer
Snowpiercer’s production was filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and intriguing details that reveal the immense creative effort that went into bringing the film to life. Some notable curiosities include:
- The film’s director, Bong Joon-ho, had never read the original graphic novel when he stumbled upon it in a comic book store. He was immediately captivated by its striking cover art and purchased it on a whim, ultimately deciding to adapt the story into a film.
- Tilda Swinton, who played the villainous Mason, based her character’s distinctive appearance on a combination of Margaret Thatcher and Colonel Gaddafi. Swinton also wore prosthetic teeth and a nose to further transform her appearance for the role.
- The Snowpiercer train was designed to be over a thousand cars long, with each car having a specific purpose and design. The film’s production designer, Ondrej Nekvasil, meticulously researched various train designs and materials to create a believable and visually striking train environment.
- Bong Joon-ho and co-writer Kelly Masterson wrote the film’s script in two different languages, with Bong writing in Korean and Masterson in English. The two would then exchange their work and translate each other’s pages, resulting in a unique blend of Eastern and Western storytelling sensibilities.
Tips for Snowpiercer Cosplay and Dressing Like the Characters
Snowpiercer offers a wealth of inspiration for cosplayers and fans looking to dress like their favorite characters. The film’s diverse cast and distinct visual style provide a wide range of options for creative costumes and accessories. Some tips for recreating the look of Snowpiercer’s characters include:
- Curtis Everett: Curtis’s signature look includes a simple, rugged wardrobe consisting of a dark, weathered jacket, cargo pants, and fingerless gloves. His outfit can be accessorized with a makeshift weapon, such as a makeshift axe or a torch.
- Mason: To capture Mason’s distinctive appearance, cosplayers can opt for a retro, military-inspired uniform with a high-collared jacket and an assortment of medals. A pair of oversized glasses, a short, gray wig, and prosthetic teeth can help complete the transformation.
- Namgoong Minsoo: Namgoong’s look is characterized by his utilitarian clothing, including a padded vest, cargo pants, and a beanie. Cosplayers can also incorporate a makeshift lockpick or other tools to reflect his engineering expertise.
- Yona: Yona’s outfit consists of a dark, hooded coat, fingerless gloves, and a scarf to keep warm in the train’s harsh environment. Her long, dark hair can be styled in a messy braid or ponytail to complete the look.
Snowpiercer’s Ending Explained
The ending of Snowpiercer is open to interpretation, with the film’s climax seeing Curtis and Namgoong sacrifice themselves to destroy the train’s engine, causing a massive explosion that derails the entire train. As the Snowpiercer crashes, Yona and Timmy, a young boy from the tail section, emerge from the wreckage and encounter a polar bear in the distance, suggesting that life may still exist outside the train.
The film’s conclusion raises several questions about the fate of humanity and the possibility of survival in the post-apocalyptic world. Some interpretations posit that the destruction of the train represents the end of the oppressive social order and the beginning of a new era of freedom and equality.
Others argue that the film’s ambiguous ending leaves the future uncertain, with the survivors facing an uncertain and potentially hostile world.
Remake, Sequel, and Spin-Off Possibilities
The success of Snowpiercer has led to various discussions about potential sequels, remakes, and spin-offs. In 2020, a television series based on the film and graphic novel premiered on TNT and Netflix, further exploring the world of Snowpiercer and introducing new characters and storylines.
The show has been well-received by fans and critics alike, with a third season confirmed.
While there has been no official announcement of a film sequel or remake, the enduring popularity of Snowpiercer and its rich, imaginative world leave the door open for future adaptations and expansions on the story.
Fans can also look forward to exploring the world of Le Transperceneige through the graphic novel series, which continues the story beyond the events of the film.
Other Media by Bong Joon Ho and Their Relation to Snowpiercer
Bong Joon-ho is a celebrated South Korean filmmaker known for his unique blend of genre storytelling and social commentary. Some of his other notable works include:
- Memories of Murder (2003): A gripping crime thriller based on the true story of South Korea’s first serial murder case.
- The Host (2006): A monster movie that combines thrilling action with a biting critique of environmental pollution and government incompetence.
- Mother (2009): A psychological thriller about a mother’s desperate search for the truth after her son is accused of murder.
- Parasite (2019): A darkly comic exploration of social inequality and class struggle that won the Palme d’Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival and four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
While each of Bong’s films is distinct in terms of genre and tone, they share common themes and stylistic elements, such as an exploration of social issues and a penchant for blending humor with tragedy.
Bong’s unique directorial vision and his ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide have made him one of the most acclaimed filmmakers working today.
Similar Media to Snowpiercer and Le Transperceneige
For fans looking to explore other stories and worlds similar to Snowpiercer and Le Transperceneige, there are numerous films, books, and graphic novels that share similar themes and settings. Some recommendations include:
- The Road (2006): A novel by Cormac McCarthy about a father and son’s journey through a post-apocalyptic wasteland.
- Children of Men (2006): A film directed by Alfonso Cuarón, set in a dystopian future where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to widespread infertility.
- Metro 2033 (2005): A novel by Dmitry Glukhovsky that follows survivors living in the Moscow subway system after a nuclear apocalypse.
- Blade Runner (1982): A science fiction classic directed by Ridley Scott, exploring themes of humanity and social inequality in a futuristic, dystopian Los Angeles.
- Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): A high-octane action film set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, directed by George Miller.
Snowpiercer Book Club Discussion Questions
For book clubs or groups interested in discussing the themes and ideas presented in Snowpiercer and Le Transperceneige, the following questions can serve as a starting point for conversation:
- What role does social class play in the world of Snowpiercer, and how does the train’s structure reinforce these divisions?
- How do the characters’ actions and decisions reflect their willingness to survive in a post-apocalyptic world?
- What is the significance of the train’s engine, and what does it represent in the story?
- How do the film and graphic novel explore the consequences of humanity’s attempts to control nature and the environment?
- In what ways does Snowpiercer challenge or subvert traditional genre conventions and expectations?
Video Games Inspired by Snowpiercer
While there is no official Snowpiercer video game, fans of the film and graphic novel can find similar experiences in a variety of post-apocalyptic and dystopian-themed games. Some recommendations include:
- The Last of Us (2013): A critically acclaimed action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection that has wiped out most of humanity.
- Frostpunk (2018): A city-building survival game where players must manage a society struggling to survive in a frozen wasteland.
- Metro 2033 (2010):
Conclusion
In conclusion, Snowpiercer is a thought-provoking and captivating story that has inspired numerous adaptations and spin-offs, including a movie, a television series, and even video games.
Its exploration of social inequality, survival, and the human spirit has resonated with audiences worldwide, and its memorable characters have fueled countless discussions and debates.
Ending Explained, Remake, Sequel, and Spin-Off
For those who want to dive even deeper into the world of Snowpiercer, there are various resources available to explore the graphic novel and film’s endings, as well as information on potential remakes, sequels, and spin-offs.
The television series, which premiered in 2020, serves as a reimagining of the story and offers a fresh take on the train’s passengers and their struggle for survival.
Other Media by Bong Joon Ho and Similar Media to Le Transperceneige
Fans of Snowpiercer may also be interested in exploring other works by the film’s director, Bong Joon Ho, such as Parasite, The Host, and Memories of Murder.
Additionally, there are several other graphic novels and films similar to Snowpiercer and Le Transperceneige that delve into dystopian worlds and social commentary, such as V for Vendetta, The Matrix, and Mad Max: Fury Road.
By examining the comic summary, adaptations, and memorable characters, we can truly appreciate the depth and complexity of Snowpiercer and its impact on popular culture.
So, whether you’re hosting a book club discussion, delving into video games, or planning a trip to the film’s locations, there’s no shortage of ways to engage with this captivating story.
