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Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

1996

San Jose State University

American Western Formula

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Full-Text Articles in Social and Behavioral Sciences

12 Monkeys, Collette Sweeney May 1996

12 Monkeys, Collette Sweeney

SWITCH

The article depicts the visual and conceptual significance of the film “12 Monkeys”, directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt. In this film, movie genres and tropes are called into question. Terry Gilliam presents a visions of the future, but relies on the conventions of the American Western Formula. Gilliam tales a distinct approach to typical characters, allowing his proragonists to become onlookers to the foreboding issue at play. What Gilliam achieves in his 12 Monkeys is making the viewers “entertain” that the future depicted in the movie may be seen as a warning.