Nineteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

In recent years, the post-apocalyptic has gained significant prominence in our culture. This concept has been employed to define situations, spaces, and periods without distinction, referring to something decadent, in ruins, empty, or that has developed following any type of catastrophe. In cinema, this concept has become increasingly prevalent, resonating with critics and audiences alike to define a particular audiovisual genre centered around the end of times. However, what truly constitutes the post-apocalyptic in cinema? Is it merely a collection of films, or is it a distinct category or genre with defined conventions and patterns? Can we separate these works from apocalyptic or disaster cinema? This study aims to address these questions by conducting an analysis of the emergence and evolution of apocalyptic themes in cinema, drawing insights from relevant scholarly literature. Through this exploration, we seek not only to understand the cinematic post-apocalyptic but also to illuminate its broader cultural significance in reflecting societal fears, hopes, and collective imaginings in an ever-changing world