Intermedial Dialogues: The French New Wave and the Other Arts

Intermedial Dialogues is the first comprehensive study of the New Wave's relationship with the older arts, casting fresh light on one of the most important movements in film history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Intermedial Dialogues is a groundbreaking exploration of one of the most significant movements in film history, delving into the intricate relationship between the New Wave and the older arts. This comprehensive study offers a fresh perspective on the era, shedding light on its profound impact and legacy.

The New Wave emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s, a cultural and artistic movement that marked a significant departure from the traditional Hollywood cinema. It was characterized by a rejection of classical narrative structures, a focus on individualism and self-expression, and a willingness to experiment with new technologies and aesthetics. At the same time, the New Wave was deeply influenced by the older arts, including literature, painting, music, and theater.

Intermedial Dialogues explores this relationship in depth, examining how the New Wave filmmakers drew inspiration from various artistic traditions and how they incorporated them into their films. The book discusses the influence of surrealism, expressionism, and other avant-garde movements on New Wave cinema, as well as the ways in which these influences were transformed and reinterpreted by the filmmakers.

One of the key themes of Intermedial Dialogues is the idea of intertextuality, which refers to the way in which films draw on and reference other texts, images, and cultural phenomena. The New Wave filmmakers were particularly adept at using intertextuality to create complex and layered narratives that resonated with their audiences on a personal and cultural level.

Another important aspect of Intermedial Dialogues is the way in which the New Wave challenged traditional notions of gender, sexuality, and identity. The films of the era often featured characters who defied traditional gender roles and explored themes of sexuality and identity that were previously taboo in mainstream cinema. This exploration of marginalized voices and experiences contributed to the movement's progressive and radical nature.

Intermedial Dialogues also offers a critical analysis of the New Wave's influence on subsequent film movements and cultural trends. The book explores how the New Wave's experimental and avant-garde style influenced the development of genres such as horror, science fiction, and action films, as well as how it influenced the emergence of postmodernism and the rise of independent cinema.

In conclusion, Intermedial Dialogues is a essential contribution to the study of film history and culture. By exploring the relationship between the New Wave and the older arts, the book offers a fresh perspective on this important movement and its profound impact on the world of cinema. Whether you are a film scholar, a cinephile, or simply interested in the evolution of artistic expression, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the New Wave and its place in film history.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474481373