Magic Realism, World Cinema, and the Avant-Garde

This book explores the hybrid and contradictory history of magic realism through the writings of three key figures: Franz Roh, Alejo Carpentier, and Fredric Jameson. It uncovers a resistant, geopolitical form of world cinema that emerges from these ideas, spanning from Europe to Latin America and the former Soviet Union to Thailand. It is invaluable to any reader interested in world modernism(s) in relation to contemporary cinema and geopolitics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Magic realism is a rich and complex artistic movement that has evolved over the course of nearly a century, often blending seamlessly with neighboring styles such as surrealism. The intricate and multifaceted landscape of modernist Europe is a testament to the enduring spirit of magic realism, as it traverses the globe, capturing the essence of its diverse cultures and landscapes. Filmmakers and writers within this book recognize the profound importance of emotion, atmosphere, and mood in subtly challenging and resisting the pervasive influence of global capitalism. Theirs is the story of magic-realist cinema, a cinematic genre that emerges from these transformative ideas.

In this book, we embark on a journey through the modernist avant-garde, seeking to unravel the mysteries of cinematic magic realism. We explore the rich tapestry of this movement, tracing its roots from Europe to Latin America, the former Soviet Union, and even Thailand. Through our exploration, we uncover a resilient and geopolitical form of world cinema that emerges from these revolutionary ideas.

This book is a treasure trove for anyone with an interest in world modernism and its relationship to contemporary cinema and geopolitics. Its comprehensive analysis of film as a sensory, intermedial medium is of immense value to scholars and researchers across a wide range of disciplines, including visual arts, literature, critical theory, and film-philosophy. By delving into the intricate nuances of magic realism, this book offers a fresh perspective on the power of art to shape our understanding of the world and to challenge the dominant narratives of power and control.

So, whether you are a student, scholar, or simply a passionate admirer of the arts, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the rich and fascinating world of magic realism and its enduring impact on the visual and cultural landscape.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138232273