re: understanding the plot. Any of these films, and others mentioned in this discussion (Last Year at Marienbad e.g.) are only "incomprehensible" from a simplistic expectation of concrete linear narrative conventions. Viewed as a dramatisation of Robbe-Grillet's narrative theory, Marienbad, for example is totally coherent and internally consistent. It just isn't a "story" in the usual sense. It visualises something close to a unfolding thought process. The Matrix is frequently labelled "incomprehensible" - by reviewers. I've never heard an academic refer to it as such. There are a quite a few philosophy sites discussing it - because it is so philosophically consistent, so intellectually solid. And Seven ... what exactly can't be understood in this straightforward traditional Hollywood narrative structure? No ... really ... ----- Original Message ----- From: "jane mills" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Wednesday, March 13, 2002 5:21 PM Subject: Understanding the plot Understanding the plot. Apologies for cross-listing Un chien Andalou, The Big Sleep, Seven, The Usual Suspects, The Matrix, Velvet Goldmine, Gummo, Mulholland Drive – all films that have incoherent or, to some, incomprehensible plots and storylines. (For some reason I am always completely baffled by films about counter espionage.) Does it matter? Do we need to understand the plot of a movie to enjoy it? Could you let me know more titles of incomprehensible films, any academic articles on the subject , and your views on the subject? Jane Mills Honorary Associate, The University of Sydney; Senior Research Associate, Australian Film,Television & Radio School 27 Dudley Street, Bondi, 2026 Tel: 9300 8836 [log in to unmask] ---- Screen-L is sponsored by the Telecommunication & Film Dept., the University of Alabama: http://www.tcf.ua.edu ---- Screen-L is sponsored by the Telecommunication & Film Dept., the University of Alabama: http://www.tcf.ua.edu