Cardboard box
The cardboard symbolizes the bond between Cam and his father, Mike. When Mike buys the cardboard as a birthday present for his son, he does it with love. Mike knows it is the cheapest gift he can afford, but he believes it can make his son happy. When Mike hands the cardboard to Cam, he receives it with love. Mike and his father start making the boxer out of cardboard, and they appreciate each other's effort. Consequently, making the boxer together strengthens the bond between Cam and his father because there are always there for each other.
Marcus
Marcus symbolizes the exploitation of the poor by the rich. Marcus is a rich kid because his parents can afford anything he needs. Marcus has all types of toys, which makes him think he is superior to poor kids like Cam. Marcus is a bully because he mistreats Cam and sometimes beats him. When Marcus discovers Cam has a magical cardboard, he steals it to create monsters. Consequently, Marcus oppresses Cam because he knows he is poor and weak. Marcus represents the influential and wealthy people in society that bully the poor and steal their possessions because they know nothing can be done to them.
The Crazy Roadside Toyshop
The crazy roadside toyshop symbolizes hope and possibilities. When Mike passes by the toyshop, he is hopeless because he does not have enough money to buy Cam a birthday gift. However, the shop's owner tells Mike that there are all types of gifts, even for those people with little cash. Mike buys the cheapest cardboard and takes it to his son as a birthday gift. The cardboard turns out to be magical and makes Cam the happiest kid in the town. The cardboard comes to life and becomes Cam’s best friend.
