The World Will Know Her Name: The Power Behind Mia Goth’s Character In Pearl
“I’m the greatest star, I am by far, but no one knows it,” Funny Girl (1968)
When I say I enjoyed Mia Goth’s character in Pearl (2022) or get to share that I can deeply relate to her need of feeling like the world should give her a deserved standing ovation for just your talent alone, you are always met with a scoff or a side eye—mainly from men, who won’t or will ever understand it. Let's be honest here, they’re all very wrong. Daily these men get to (unwantedly) state very loudly their own appreciation of Patrick Bateman as a character. Patrick makes them feel safe, and “seen.” Please let it be known most men who relate to Patrick's character don’t actually understand the concept of Patrick Bateman (by the authors own explanation of his character). Men just like to pretend they do or they’ll usually twist this character to fit their own misogynist mindsets into American Psycho. Patrick Bateman's character was originally written by Bret Easton Ellis. Bret created this character as a telling on the reality of how easily white straight rich men get away with their despicable crimes and are commonly born excused for their actions—because of their born privileges. Men who like Patrick Bateman get to freely say, “He just like me fr.” and we’re supposed to laugh? It should just be accepted that this is an “okay” character to have represented them. But I am the mad woman for liking Pearl. Don’t talk shit about my favorite fictional killer if I can’t talk shit about yours.
“One day the whole world’s gonna know my name.”
Wanting fame is not the only thing that makes an audience relate to Pearl. The only thing that makes her relatable; is her desire to achieve her dream that could lead her into having a meaningful existence (by Pearl’s own definition). This desire lives inside of us all. It does not just pertain to becoming famous, or never having to work again for a growing success, but the desire to have our lives become meaningful in a world one can spend a long time feeling unmeaningful.
I have a character analysis on Pearl click here!
I will sit here, typing on my little laptop, and continue to spend my awakened days defending Pearl. As long as I am alive there will be a Pearl defender on this earth. Pearl is a dreamer—a dreamer who is angry. The anger solely born from living her entire life with no support and no escape—how can a girl not go mad?
