Anachronism
An anachronism is an element in a film that is “out of time.” It is an object, person, or piece of dialogue that does not belong to the film’s established time period or setting. This item is chronologically out of place. The word itself comes from Greek roots. It means “against time.” An anachronism can be a simple mistake. It can also be a deliberate artistic choice. In either case, it creates a contrast between the story’s world and the out-of-place element.
Unintentional Anachronisms: Film Flubs
Most people know anachronisms as film mistakes, or “flubs.” These are unintentional errors. They happen when a modern object accidentally appears in a historical scene. These continuity errors can break the audience’s immersion. They shatter the illusion of reality, which is called verisimilitude.
Famous examples of these mistakes are legendary. Viewers have spotted a wristwatch on a gladiator in Gladiator. A car or plane has appeared in the background of ancient battles. A modern building might be visible in a Western. These errors occur during complex productions. The art department, prop master, or costume designer may overlook a detail. A modern crew member or object might also stray into the shot. The script supervisor’s job is to catch these errors on set. However, some mistakes still slip through to the final cut.
Intentional Anachronisms: A Creative Tool
An anachronism is not always a mistake. A director can also use one as a deliberate creative choice. This can achieve a specific thematic or stylistic effect. When used intentionally, an anachronism forces the audience to think. It bridges the gap between the past and the present.
| For Thematic Effect | A filmmaker might use modern music in a period film. Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette (2006) famously used a post-punk soundtrack. This choice made the teen queen’s experience feel more modern and relatable. Similarly, A Knight’s Tale (2001) used classic rock anthems at medieval jousts. This created a high-energy, sporting-event atmosphere. |
| For Comedic Effect | Comedy films often use anachronisms for laughs. Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles (1974) is full of them. Characters in the Old West make modern pop culture references. This surreal humor is the entire point of the joke. |
| For Stylization | Some directors create a unique, stylized world. This world is not bound by strict historical accuracy. The Mad Max films, for example, blend different eras of technology. This creates a timeless, post-apocalyptic aesthetic. |
The Impact on the Audience
The success of an anachronism depends entirely on intent. An unintentional mistake can be jarring. It can pull a viewer out of the story. It might become a famous piece of film trivia. An intentional anachronism, on the other hand, is a bold artistic statement. It can be just as jarring. However, it forces the audience to engage with the film on a different level. It asks them to see the “then” through the lens of “now.” Whether it’s a sloppy mistake or a brilliant choice, an anachronism always highlights the constructed nature of film.
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