Performing Brains on Screen

The film Performing Brains on Screen explores how films depict and represent the idea that human beings are essentially their brains, reflecting one of the most influential modern perspectives on human nature. It demonstrates how films have portrayed brains in two primary ways: by turning physical brains into protagonists or by giving unseen brains inside someone's head a significant role. By analyzing filmic genres and specific movies, the book highlights this neglected filmic universe and shows how the cinema has served as a cultural space where a fundamental notion of the contemporary world has been rehearsed and problematized.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

The captivating realm of "Performing Brains on Screen" delves into the captivating world of film, exploring the profound belief that human beings are essentially their brains. This belief, which holds immense influence in modern understanding of the human, manifests in various cinematic portrayals. Films have employed two primary approaches to depict brains: by transforming physical brains into central characters, reminiscent of the brain movies of the 1950s, where disembodied brains carry out sinister intentions, or by granting unseen brains a prominent role, as seen in brain transplantation films and their subsequent iterations since the 1980s. Through a meticulous analysis of filmic genres and specific movies, "Performing Brains on Screen" uncovers this oft-overlooked cinematic universe, showcasing how the medium has served as a cultural space where a fundamental notion of the contemporary world has been rehearsed and critically examined.

In the 1950s, brain movies emerged as a popular genre, where physical brains were brought to life as the central characters. These films depicted terrestrial or extraterrestrial brains with evil intentions, often engaging in nefarious activities. These movies capitalized on the fascination with the human brain and its potential for evil, providing a thrilling and suspenseful experience for audiences.

On the other hand, brain transplantation films and their successors since the 1980s have taken a different approach. These films explore the concept of brain contents being transferred and manipulated through information technology. They depict scientists and medical professionals working to transplant brains, either to cure diseases or enhance human abilities. These films often delve into ethical and philosophical questions, such as what it means to be human and the boundaries of scientific progress.

Through an in-depth analysis of filmic genres and specific movies, "Performing Brains on Screen" documents this neglected filmic universe. It sheds light on how the cinema has functioned as a cultural space where a core notion of the contemporary world has been rehearsed and problematized. These films offer a unique perspective on the human condition, exploring the complexities of the mind, body, and technology.

In conclusion, "Performing Brains on Screen" is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between film and the belief that human beings are essentially their brains. By examining the ways in which films depict brains, whether through physical transformations or unseen mental processes, the book provides a valuable contribution to the study of cinema and contemporary culture. Through its meticulous analysis and engaging storytelling, "Performing Brains on Screen" invites viewers to contemplate the profound implications of this belief and its impact on our understanding of the human.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462989146