Kassovitz successfully reaches out to an unheard audience through the scenes in La Haine. The themes of crimes, drugs and violence were relatable in 1995 and still are even now. Despite being a foreign film, the universal themes can get any viewer to stop and think about the times they are living in.
Crime is a theme that is constantly present during the film. The situations of the main characters; Said, Hubert and Vinz are relatable to people with money struggles. Stealing from shops, selling drugs and taking drugs are ways in which the three friends get by in their living situation. The scene where Hubert takes drugs has an extremely powerful message behind it. The contrast between the smooth jazzy music and the reality of Hubert taking the drugs can show the audience how something that is seen as a taboo due the dangerous stigma to it can be some people's safe place from the commotion of poor living. Hubert himself as a character plays a huge part in Kassovitz motive to shed light on ignored issues such as; racism, drug abuse, violence and the lack of care for those in poorer living conditions.
The motive behind the riots in France is due to a policeman abusing and hospitalising a young arab boy called Abdel. Police brutality is common way after the film was produced, specifically in America. Despite times changing, issues that plagued society in the 90’s is still relevant to today’s issues.
The friendship between the three can be represented through the cinematography. The scene in which this is most significantly shown is the scene when they are in the train together. Said’s sitting in the front, Vinz in the middle and Hubert is at the back. This can symbolise their place in the group. Said’s placement can personify how despite not being the most clever or reliant, he can be seen as a leader as he is the middle man and almost keeps Hubert and Vinz friends. Hubert and Vinz can be seen to have personality clashes and Said prevents the two from breaking apart. Vinz’s placement personifies how he attempts to be leader but is held down by both Hubert and Said. He’s not as sensible as his other friends but is more pro active then Hubert. Huberts placement can represent his personality. He is more relaxed and carefree than the two.
