Film, Philosophy, and Reality

Film, Philosophy, and Reality: Ancient Greece to Godard is an original contribution to film-philosophy that illustrates how thinking about movies can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of both reality and the nature of human experience. Concentrating on the question of the relationship between appearance and reality, it serves as both an introduction to philosophy through film and an introduction to film through philosophy.

The book is divided into three parts. The first section serves as an introduction to philosophy and film, intended for readers with little background in either subject. The second part examines the philosophical significance of the distinction between appearance and reality, demonstrating that reflection on this distinction is naturally prompted by the experience of watching movies. The final part meticulously examines the style and techniques of Jean-Luc Godard’s groundbreaking film Breathless, illustrating how such themes can be explored cinematically.

The book addresses topics such as:

• Film: what it is and how to understand it
• The methods and concerns of philosophy
• The nature of cinematic appearances
• The history of metaphysics
• The relationship between cinema and life
• The philosophical relevance of film techniques

With a glossary of key thinkers, terms, and concepts, as well as sections on suggested films and further reading, this textbook will appeal to lecturers and students in undergraduate philosophy and film courses, especially those focused on Philosophy of Film, Philosophy and Film, or Film-Philosophy.