Officer Hansen

Office Hansen first impressions Officer Hansen is a model authority figure, out to make the world a better place. His naivety is shown throughout the movie as to the racism shown in everyday life. He is shocked by Officer Ryan’s despicable actions and the city’s and NYPD’s lack of action. Hansen saves Cameron during his confrontation with the police and we see that he is trying to right the wrongs done by his partner Ryan. Officer Hansen is possibly the least bigoted and righteous in the film, and the change we see in him comes as a shock. Hansen does not believe in racism, cultural stereotypes or prejudice. Hansen is, at the beginning of the movie, one of the ‘good guys’. Officer Ryan: ‘You think you know who you are?’ *Officer Hanson nods* Officer Ryan: ‘You have no idea’

Office Hansen conclusion Although Hansen shows initial kindness by picking Peter up, we see how Hansen has changed through the resulting conversation and reactions. Hansen stereotypes Peter immediately, as they have a conversation about music, Hansen finds it ironic that Peter enjoys country music as he is black. Hansen thinks Peter is being sarcastic, and trying to draw parallels between blacks and whites as he says he enjoys ice-skating, seeing it as funny that a black man likes the sport. We see Hansen has picked up Ryan's prejudice and racist views, and a definite role-reversal is shown by Haggis. Hansen final act is assuming that Peter is reaching for a gun, Hansen draws and shoots Peter dead. Again the irony is shown as Peter is really reaching for a statue of Saint Christopher, the greatest connection between Hansen and Peter. Hansen has changed from a figure of authority and leadership to a cop whose views are clouded with racism and prejudice. Officer Hansen: ‘Something funny?’ Peter: ‘People, man, people