Metaphysics is a core concept of philosophy which seeks to explain the nature of reality. How do we reconcile the duality of our perception of the material and the immaterial— the mysterious relationship between the mind and body? Metaphysical arguments also tend toward cosmological arguments about the origins of existence.
The very word should sound familiar, Being John Malkovich viewers, because at one point in the film Craig asks Maxine, “Do you know what a metaphysical can of worms this portal is?” Being John Malkovich is self-reflexive in this sense for those who question along with Craig the nature of a world where there are portals through which people can enter others’ brains… or, rather, John Malkovich’s brain. It’s clear that the creators of this film solve the mind/body problem by separating the two entities. For Craig and Dr. Lester’s bandwagon, John Malkovich’s body is a vehicle, one that is to be controlled. However, John Malkovich also has a “soul,” if you will, as he is knocked into his subconsciousness when Craig and Dr. Lester become his body’s new host. The film also explores a myriad of other subjects, including sexual identity, animal consciousness, and communication among others.
