Adapting philosophy: Jean Baudrillard and *The Matrix Trilogy*

by Catherine Constable

Adapting Philosophy looks at the ways in which The Matrix Trilogy adapts Jean Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulation, and in doing so creates its own distinctive philosophical position. Where previous work in the field has presented the trilogy as a simple ‘beginner’s guide’ to philosophy, this study offers a new methodology for inter-relating philosophy and film texts, focusing on the conceptual role played by imagery in both types of text. This focus on the figurative enables a new-found appreciation of the liveliness of philosophical writing and the multiple philosophical dimensions of Hollywood films. The book opens with a critical overview of existing philosophical writing on The Matrix Trilogy and goes on to draw on adaptation theory and feminist philosophy in order to create a new methodology for interlinking philosophical and filmic texts. Three chapters are devoted to detailed textual analyses of the films, tracing the ways in which the imagery that dominates Baudrillard’s writing is adapted and transformed by the trilogy’s complex visuals and soundtrack. The conclusion situates the methodology developed throughout the book in relation to other approaches currently emerging in the new field of Film-Philosophy. The book’s multi-disciplinary approach encompasses Philosophy, Film Studies and Adaptation Theory and will be of interest to undergraduates and postgraduates studying these subjects. It also forms part of the developing interdisciplinary field of Film-Philosophy. The detailed textual analyses of The Matrix Trilogy will also be of interest to anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of the multi-faceted nature of this seminal work.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Film

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Kamakana · Rating 5 out of 5]

010910: very interesting on the matrix trilogy, with which i a very familiar, and work of jean baudrillard- with which i know only in passing. is it possible to do philosophy in images not words, is it possible to elaborate discussion rather than simply illustrate or provoke, is fidelity a pressing concern with an author-less text, these are some of the questions posed in a very good work that does not simplify or unduly amplify issues and realization of a favorite movie...

[Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Matrix, Baudrillard, philosophy - I'm in heaven.