Screening the Gothic in Australia and New Zealand: Contemporary Antipodean Film and Television

The popularity of detective narratives, psychological and supernatural disturbances, and the resurgence of older mysteries or the Gothic in contemporary film and television productions is explored in this collection. It examines representations of the Gothic on both the small and large screens in Australia and New Zealand in the twenty-first century, focusing on the generic innovations of this temporal and geographical focus.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

The enduring allure of the detective narrative, the growing fascination with psychological and supernatural disturbances, and the revival of older narratives of mystery or the Gothic have all contributed significantly to the abundance of contemporary film and television productions. Moreover, the emergence of new modes of watching film and television has further invigorated this "most domestic of media." However, the question remains: How does this "domesticity of genre and media" manifest itself in the twenty-first century in Australia and New Zealand? This collection seeks to explore representations of the Gothic on both the small and large screens in these post- or neo-colonial contexts, with a particular emphasis on the generic innovations that arise from this temporal and geographical focus.

The popularity of the detective narrative has remained steadfast throughout the years, captivating audiences with its intricate plots and compelling characters. This genre has continued to evolve, incorporating new technologies and techniques to keep viewers engaged. One notable trend in detective narratives is the exploration of psychological and supernatural elements. These narratives often delve into the depths of human behavior, exploring the darker side of the human psyche and the supernatural forces that exist in the world.

Another obsession in contemporary film and television productions is the portrayal of psychological and supernatural disturbances. These narratives often delve into the minds of characters who are struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis. They also explore the supernatural realm, delving into topics such as ghosts, demons, and other supernatural creatures. The resurgence of older narratives of mystery or the Gothic has also contributed to the abundance of contemporary film and television productions. These narratives often draw inspiration from classic literature and folklore, reimagining them for a modern audience. They often incorporate elements of horror, suspense, and intrigue, creating a thrilling and suspenseful experience for viewers.

In Australia and New Zealand, the Gothic has also found a place in contemporary film and television productions. This genre has been particularly popular in the horror and thriller genres, where it is used to create a sense of fear and suspense. However, the Gothic has also been used in other genres, such as drama and comedy, to explore darker themes and characters.

One notable example of the Gothic in Australian film and television is the series "The Babadook." This film, directed by Jennifer Kent, tells the story of a single mother who is haunted by a supernatural creature that appears to be a manifestation of her own mental health issues. The film explores the themes of trauma, mental health, and the supernatural, creating a chilling and suspenseful experience for viewers.

Another example of the Gothic in Australian film and television is the series "The Leftovers." This series, created by Damon Lindelof, follows the lives of people who have disappeared after a mysterious event known as the Sudden Departure. The series explores the themes of loss, grief, and the supernatural, creating a complex and emotionally charged narrative.

In New Zealand, the Gothic has also been popular in contemporary film and television productions. One notable example is the series "The Darkest Hour." This series, directed by Chris Smith, tells the story of a group of people who must band together to survive a devastating alien invasion. The series incorporates elements of horror, science fiction, and the supernatural, creating a thrilling and suspenseful experience for viewers.

Another example of the Gothic in New Zealand film and television is the series "The Brokenwood Mysteries." This series, created by Gerard Lee, follows the investigations of a detective who solves crimes in a small town. The series incorporates elements of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, creating a captivating and intriguing narrative.

In conclusion, the persistent popularity of the detective narrative, new obsessions with psychological and supernatural disturbances, and the resurgence of older narratives of mystery or the Gothic have all contributed significantly to the abundance of contemporary film and television productions. New ways of watching film and television have also seen a reinvigoration of this "most domestic of media." However, the question remains: How does this "domesticity of genre and media" manifest itself in the twenty-first century in Australia and New Zealand? This collection seeks to explore representations of the Gothic on both the small and large screens in these post- or neo-colonial contexts, with a particular emphasis on the generic innovations that arise from this temporal and geographical focus.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463721141