The Same As You Left It: A Short Narrative Exploring Family Disfunctionality

Author

• Arkady W. McGinness, University of Mississippi Main CampusFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-4-2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Theater and Film

First Advisor

Juli Jackson

Second Advisor

Michael Tuxhorn

Third Advisor

John Young

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

The Same As You Left It is a short narrative film that explores patterns of dysfunction, miscommunication, and forgiveness within a family; specifically through the relationship between a mother and her son. The film follows Scooter, a college student returning home during a Christmas break, as he navigates a series of escalating conflicts between him and his mother, Patty. Through chaotic and sometimes comedic moments, the film examines how repeated cycles of behavior can shape perception, resentment, and emotional distance within familial relationships.

This project is guided by an investigation into how dysfunctional family dynamics operate as recurring patterns. Drawing on personal experience and research into cycles of conflict and communication breakdown, the film reflects how individuals often respond not only to present circumstances but to accumulated emotional history. These patterns are expressed through both narrative structure and performance, where minor interactions escalate into disproportionate conflict, revealing deeper unresolved tensions.

The film utilizes elements of dark comedy to explore the coexistence of humor and discomfort within emotionally volatile situations. By allowing exaggerated, illogical moments to emerge from grounded emotional motivations, the project highlights how absurdity can coexist with sincerity. This project argues that while cycles of dysfunction can feel inescapable, a moment of self reflection, however small, can create space for empathy and change. Rather than presenting a complete resolution, The Same As You Left It offers a reflection on the possibility of re-perceiving relationships, and that understanding and forgiveness can begin to heal wounds with the ones that have difficulties expressing their own pain.

Comments

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Recommended Citation

McGinness, Arkady W., "The Same As You Left It: A Short Narrative Exploring Family Disfunctionality" (2026). Honors Theses. 3566.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3566

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