Look Both Ways: Suicide or reflecting?

[bubbles]

What do you think: Was Andy contemplating suicide or was he trying to put Rob's death in perspective when he stood infront of the train?

Please explain your choice. 

[Nick]

The scene in which Andy stands in front of the train is a powerful reflective moment. It symbolises his disempowerment and his inability to connect with life and those around him.
There is no doubt that Andy possessed an unstable state of mind at this stage of the film, as it seems he is unsure whether he is willing or able to confront life's challenges.  I think he is more reflective than suicidal in this scene. The scene emphasises that he is possibly the film's most vulnerable character, yet his decision to step away from the train demonstrates his committment to disposing of his insecurities and pursuing life with renewed optimisism. 

Hope this helps 

[DrowNz]

This question was asked numerous times and I remember even watching an interview with Sarah Watt's in which she politely declined to comment on the original intentions of the scene.

Honestly, I think it was done this way purposely giving you the option to 'look both ways' by adding this other dimension of uncertainty, allowing for subjective interpretation. The film is filled with those and that is why it is such a good film to write about imho.

On the exam I am sure you could pick either one or better yet, if possible, raising this vagueness.

[bubbles]

Thanks guys! The last thing I want to do in an exam is to incorrectly state information due to poor interpretation of the film and Sarah Watt's message. Hopefully what's important is that there isn't a right or wrong answer, as long as you provide evidence in the film to support your viewpoint.
My teacher definitely agrees with Nick. She completely rules out the possibility that he was contemplating suicide. She believes people who are suicidal are those who are lying in bed depressed, feeling sorry for themselves. This she argues is not Andy. He hasn't finished hating the world and still has so much to complain about.