This week, we have learned about the significant shift from analog to digital technology in the production, projection, and consumption of film and television, ushering in a new era often referred to as the “post-cinematic” period. As explored by scholars like Lev Manovich in “The Language of New Media,” this term signifies a departure from traditional cinematic norms, heavily influenced by digital technology and new media forms (Manovich, 2001). The film Detention, 2011, Dir. Joseph Kahn offers a fertile ground for exploring the quintessential features of post-cinema.

Narratively, “Detention” subverts convention. It amalgamates various elements such as horror, sci-fi, and teen comedy, creating a mosaic that resonates with Henry Jenkins’ thoughts in “Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide” (Jenkins, 2006). Jenkins argues that as technology advances, the boundaries between different media forms become increasingly porous, leading to a new cultural phenomenon—media convergence (Jenkins, 2006). The film’s narrative is non-linear and fragmented, a hallmark of post-cinematic storytelling that offers a viewing experience distinct from traditional approaches.

The use of digital technology in “Detention” is seen as a narrative device. The film’s visual style aligns with Manovich’s assertions about the transformative impact of digital media on visual arts. He emphasizes how digital technology has changed the way we create, distribute, and perceive media, giving rise to new forms of artistic expression and communication (Manovich, 2001). The extensive use of digital effects creates a hyperreal aesthetic, blurring the lines between reality and simulation, echoing Jean Baudrillard’s concepts in “Simulacra and Simulation” (Baudrillard, 1994).

Furthermore, “Detention” mirrors the postmodern condition of our era. By parodying pop culture and commenting on contemporary youth experiences, it presents a unique cultural perspective. Steven Shaviro in “Post-Cinematic Affect” emphasizes that modern audiences’ emotional and sensory engagement with films has transcended the boundaries of traditional narrative forms (Shaviro, 2010).

In summary, “Detention” vividly portrays the post-cinematic era. Through its innovative narrative structure, digital technology, and profound cultural commentary, it challenges the forms of traditional cinema. As a film, it not only entertains but also prompts viewers to contemplate the evolution and development of cinema in the digital age, marking a key moment in the trajectory of film as an art form, and showcasing the ongoing transformation of the essence of cinema.

References:

Baudrillard, J. (1994). Simulacra and Simulation. University of Michigan Press.

Jenkins, H. (2006). Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide. NYU Press.

Manovich, L. (2001). The Language of New Media. MIT Press.

Shaviro, S. (2010). Post-Cinematic Affect. Zero Books.

By: YiWang 33789183