The article discusses a new cinematic trend dubbed "New Literalism" showcased in films like 'Gladiator II,' 'Megalopolis,' and 'The Apprentice.' This approach incorporates exaggerated expressions and abstract symbolism, moving away from the conventions of documentary realism. Through powerful, sometimes absurd representations—such as a warrior's literal threat with a wooden sword or a magnate's phallic arrow—the films reveal a deeper, often darker commentary on power, betrayal, and ambition, emphasizing how literal symbols can alter narrative interpretation in storytelling.
In the recent movies 'Gladiator II,' 'Megalopolis,' and 'The Apprentice,' we see a trend toward New Literalism, where films embrace exaggerated expressions and meanings.
Each of these films—action/adventure, sci-fi/drama, and drama/history—disregards traditional documentary realism in favor of more exaggerated and often absurd representations.
The warrior exclaims, 'Wood or steel, a point is still a point!' showing how these films use stark symbolism to create heightened reality through literalism.
By pulling aside his clothes to reveal his golden bow and arrow, the magnate subverts typical tropes, using an exaggerated metaphor as his last act of defiance.
Collection
[
|
...
]