One of the most prominent themes is Transformation.

One of the most prominent themes is Transformation. Of course, this is common to most Hero Journeys. As J. Campbell says of the hero at the end of their journey, "They return home a transformed individual."

We see this dynamic in several different ways and it is introduced quite early in the story when Alberto pulls Luca above the surface and Luca 'transforms' into a human form. This dynamic -- shapeshifting from sea monster to human, human to sea monster -- is a wonderful way to convey a truth about transformation: It's a tricky proposition, not a simple matter of switching from one mode of being to another. In this case, what happens on the surface of the character -- their fleshly changes -- does not necessarily reflect how much or little the character has changed from within.

This dynamic -- the tricky nature of transformation -- is echoed with the emergence of the makeshift Vespa. Yearning to explore this New World and even to fly (a sign of Luca's aspirations to "soar" above his old life), Luca puts together a bunch of parts, transforming them over time into a viable motor scooter. Here again, a mixed blessing.

--Consumed with the first attempt to build the Vespa, Luca loses track of time and returns home late, endangering his status with his parents, saved only by his Grandmother who makes an excuse for Luca.

--It takes several attempts by Luca and Alberto to successfully build the Vespa, symbolic of the challenge of personal transformation (i.e., it's not easy and it takes time).

--Eventually they get to ride, but the Vespa transports both he and Alberto into a harrowing and dangerous ride.

Even the rusty Vespa Luca hopes to buy by attaining the cash prize by winning the triathlon dovetails into the transformation theme. The ultimate prize is not the Vespa or winning the race. It is what Luca discovers within himself, a sense of empowerment which enables him to prevail in the race and beyond.

Learning to ride a bicycle also speaks to the challenge of personal transformation. The fact Luca masters cycling provides proof that he can change.

Transformation continues its importance throughout the rest of the story capped off by an ending in which the entire human-sea monster dynamic is turned on its head.

Next: A discussion about key dialogue in the script.