[ad_1]
Self-reflexivity is a major element of postmodern art because the artifice of fiction has been an important philosophical concern for some time. Ranging from the bizarre creations of Charlie Kaufman to the latest Marvel productions, breaking the fourth wall is definitely trendy right now.
While modern audiences are more familiar with metafictional works such as Ryan Reynolds’ dead Pool, the tradition of metafiction dates back to the fourteenth century. Examples of metafictional conflicts can be found in seminal works of literature such as The Canterbury Tales and Don Quixoteeven though the term was coined in 1970.
Unlike the rigid standards of realism, which attempted to create accurate reflections of our external realities through art, postmodernist scholars insisted that fiction and reality were two distinct realms. Through their work, postmodern artists have done their best to draw public attention to the constructed nature of art.
The earliest example of a metafictional moment in a serious work is the 1918 silent film The men who made love to me. Directed by Arthur Berthelet, the 70-minute feature was based on the pioneering writings of feminist author Mary MacLane.
Although she was called “controversial” at the time, MacLane was an outspoken feminist and a vocal member of the LGBTQ+ community. Known as the “Wild Woman of Butte,” MacLane’s confessional style and bold ideas have inspired generations of women and budding writers.
The men who made love to me was based on “I, Mary MacLane”, and it featured MacLane as herself. The film explores the multiple affairs in which the writer has been involved, presenting her as the dominant force in her dealings with men.
MacLane also made history by engaging in the first metafictional breakdown of the fourth wall, addressing the audience directly by interrupting scenes. Interestingly, it was also the first film where the writer, star, subject and narrator were the same person – MacLane. Unfortunately, the film is considered lost. For this reason, another essential piece of cinematic history will remain out of reach for future generations.
Follow Far Out Magazine on our social networks, on Facebook, Twitter and instagram.