Post-cinematic form refers to a departure from the traditional conventions of filmmaking that were shaped by the limitations and characteristics of celluloid film. In the post-cinematic era, advancements in digital technologies have liberated filmmakers from the constraints of physical film, allowing for new and innovative storytelling techniques. This includes the rise of non-linear narratives, interactive storytelling in virtual reality, and the blending of different media forms. Steven Shaviro, in his work ‘Post-Continuity: An introduction’ from “Post-Cinema: Theorising 21st Century Film,” contributes to the discourse by exploring how post-cinematic forms challenge and redefine our understanding of continuity, urging a reevaluation of established cinematic norms.

Post-continuity challenges the established norms of continuity editing, which has long been a cornerstone of classical filmmaking. Continuity editing aims to maintain a seamless flow of time and space within a film, ensuring a coherent and easily digestible narrative. In the post-continuity era, filmmakers deliberately disrupt these conventions. This disruption can take the form of fragmented narratives, disjunctive editing styles, and a departure from linear cause-and-effect storytelling. Steven Shaviro’s exploration of post-continuity contributes to the understanding of how filmmakers intentionally break away from traditional structures, fostering a more dynamic and participatory relationship between the audience and the narrative.

“Her” explores the emotional and relational dynamics between humans and artificial intelligence. The film taps into the new structure of feeling by delving into the complex and evolving nature of human-AI relationships. It goes beyond traditional emotional responses, inviting audiences to contemplate the implications of technology on human connection and emotion.

Coined by cultural critic Raymond Williams and further explored in the context of post-cinematic experiences, the “new structure of feeling” encapsulates the evolving sensibilities, emotions, and subjectivities of contemporary society. In the post-cinematic landscape, the way audiences connect with audiovisual content goes beyond traditional emotional responses. It involves a visceral and intuitive engagement with narratives that extend beyond the screen. Shaviro’s insights into post-continuity, as discussed in “Post-Cinema: Theorising 21st Century Film,” contribute to the shaping of this new structure of feeling by highlighting the profound impact these changes have on audience engagement. Filmmakers and storytellers embracing these concepts, inspired by Shaviro’s work, are at the forefront of shaping the future of audiovisual experiences.

By: Reeya Appadoo