Inception is a complex and intricate film that delves into the realm of dreams and the power of the subconscious mind. One of the key moments in the film occurs when Arthur, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, kisses Ariadne, portrayed by Ellen Page. This action serves a specific purpose within the context of the story and is a tactical move devised by Charles, played by Tom Hardy, in order to manipulate the dreamer, Cobb, played by Leonardo DiCaprio.
The primary objective of Charles’ tactic is to make the dreamer, Cobb, aware that he is, in fact, dreaming. By doing so, Charles hopes to turn Cobb’s own subconscious against itself and create a sense of instability within the dream world. This is a crucial step in their mission to plant an idea in the mind of their target.
Now, you might be wondering why Arthur kissing Ariadne specifically is chosen as the method to achieve this goal. The reasoning behind this lies in the fact that Cobb’s subconscious projections, the manifestations of his own mind within the dream, are programmed to protect the dreamer from any perceived threats. These projections can become hostile if they sense any danger or intrusion.
By having Ariadne kiss Arthur, the team is essentially creating a diversion. The projections, who are programmed to protect Cobb, would be momentarily thrown off guard by this unexpected display of affection. This diversionary tactic is meant to distract the projections and prevent them from attacking the team during their crucial mission.
It is important to note that in the world of dreams, the subconscious mind can be influenced by emotions and personal connections. By using a gesture of intimacy, such as a kiss, the team is tapping into this emotional aspect to disarm the projections. By exploiting this vulnerability, they are able to buy themselves precious time to carry out their plan without interference from the projections.
In essence, the kiss between Arthur and Ariadne serves as a strategic move to outwit Cobb’s subconscious projections and maintain the safety of the team as they navigate through the complex layers of dreams. It is a calculated tactic devised by Charles, demonstrating his understanding of the subconscious mind and his ability to manipulate it for their advantage.
The kiss between Arthur and Ariadne in Inception is not a romantic gesture but rather a tactical maneuver orchestrated by Charles. Its purpose is to distract and disarm Cobb’s subconscious projections, allowing the team to proceed with their mission without interference. This scene highlights the intricate and thought-provoking nature of the film, showcasing the power of the subconscious mind and the lengths one must go to manipulate it.