Postmodernism
SONAM NGUYEN
Definition of Postmodernism in film
Postmodernism is a late 2oth century style and concept in
the arts, architecture and criticisms, which represents a
departure from modernism and is characterized by the self
conscious use of earlier styles and conventions, a mixing of
different artistic styles and media, and a general distrust of
theories. (As sourced of Wikipedia)
Postmodernism & Postmodern Media Texts
In this powerpoint, I will be defining and giving examples of the
following postmodern elements within film:
Challenging Metanarrative
Intertextuality/Pastiche
Hyperreality
Challenging Metanarrative
Definition
A metanarrative in critical theory and particularly in postmodernism is a narrative about narratives
of historical meaning, experience or knowledge, which offers a society legitimation through the
anticipated completion of a (as yet unrealised) master idea. (wiki)
In other words, a metanarrative in postmodern film is often used to bring the audience away from
reality. This is done by using glimpses of hyperreality and/or by mixing up the linear format of a film.
Examples of films that challenge the metanarrative include:
•Inception (2010)
•Pulp Fiction (1994)
•Momento (2000)
These are films that do not follow a chronological order and show forms of hyperreality. They also
require the audience to solve the films challenging/complicated plot with their own ideas and mind.
Intertextuality and Pastiche
Definition
A pastiche/intertextuality is an artistic work in a style that imitates that of another work, artist, or
period. (Wiki)
In this case, this is where film ‘A’ uses similarities of film ‘B’.
An example of Pastiche in film:
•Death Proof (2007)  Kill Bill (2003)
The popular film directed by Quentin Tarantino, Death Proof, uses a pastiche of the film which was
also directed by himself, Kill Bill in two of its scenes. The first being Death Proof has a reference to Kill
Bill through the use of the yellow and black car (shown below), which is the exact same colour as Uma
Thurman’s costume in Kill Bill (represented above). Secondly, in one of the scenes, the nurse (Elle
Driver) in Kill Bill is seen whistling a tune. This is a pastiche in Death Proof, as the same tune is used as
a characters ringtone.
Hyperreality
Definition
In semiotics and postmodernism, hyperreality is an inability of consciousness to distinguish reality
from a simulation of reality, especially in technologically advanced postmodern societies. (Wiki)
Hyperreality is used to draw the audience away from the real world by directing them towards a
fictional/imaginary world.
Examples of postmodern films that use hyperreality:
•Kill Bill (2003)
Hyperreality is used when ‘Pai Mei’ jumps on ‘The Brides’ sword.
•The Matrix (1999)
The use of slow-motion time.