Klosterman 4/1 Reading

Reading Summary

In this reading, Klosterman compares the sophistication of modern films vs. past films (specifically those made in the 70s). He explains that current cinema verges more on having no concept and being solely vehicles for certain celebrities whereas past films validated social evolution. The reason behind this being that films nowadays find difficulty in confirming the current of pop culture because that once linear flow of cultural progression is now splintered. Klosterman states “modern movies can no longer introduce impending realities; they can’t even explain the one we currently have.” Klosterman proceeds to analyze transcendental films such as Vanilla Sky, Waking Life, The Matrix, and The Memento. All of which have a central theme: the absurdity of reality.

Outside Example

This reading reminded me of the new Tame Impala music video, “Lost in Yesterday.” The basis of this song and music video is how as time progresses, nostalgia can become a very astute liar. One lyric that emphasizes this point: “now even though that was a time I hated from day one, eventually, terrible memories turn into great ones.” Nostalgia and constantly over examining past memories can lead us into developing distorted views of past realities.

Reading Connection

A central question that Klosterman poses is “what is reality?” He offers the possibility that “reality is a paradigm that always seem different and personal and unique, yet never really is. Reality is autonomous.” This particular thought is key in viewing the “Lost in Yesterday” music video. Each character has a subjective memory of reality that only becomes more and more idealistic with time. When in actuality, the reality that was (and still is) is objective. Nostalgia often causes us to sugar coat past events allowing us to “alter” that reality within our memories. However, romanticizing the past does not ACTUALLY alter reality it only changes your perspective of reality. Reality doesn’t care about your feelings.