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Socialization functions as a mechanism of social control in the movie Pleasantville because it sets up expectations and norms of how people should act, think and behave. This is demonstrated when two teenage siblings from the 1990s are transported to an idealized 1950s town filled with black and white citizens who have no knowledge of what lies beyond their own borders. The residents of Pleasantville conform to these established norms by living in perfect harmony. For example, almost everyone wears the same outfit (a gray skirt for women, a gray suit for men) and they all eat at one specific restaurant where they do not deviate from the norm. It is clear that any deviation or questioning of accepted behavior will be met with confusion or anger.

The film also demonstrates how social interaction is used as a basis for people giving meaning to their actions, behaviors, ideologies, and beliefs. In particular, when David (the 90’s teenager who was transported into Pleasantville) begins to introduce color into his world he finds himself faced with resistance from those around him who are afraid of change or anything different than their traditional view of reality. However, this fear eventually gives way to a gradual acceptance as members begin interacting more openly with each other such as discussing concepts like creativity which were previously unheard of in Pleasantville’s society. By engaging in conversations about new topics that challenge traditional values and beliefs, some characters start to develop fresh perspectives on life which ultimately leads them towards embracing color and difference rather than rejecting it out of fear .