A Study Of Jia Zhangke’s Authorship In Film

This dissertation concerns the authorship of Jia Zhangke, whose film works are strikingly innovative and attracted attention both inside and outside China. Jia Zhangke started making films outside the state-run filmmaking system in the 1990s, and since then he has been consciously building up authorship in his films. He also shows a realistic style in his works, emphasizing and valuing the redemption of physical reality. Thus, Jia Zhangke and his work of films are in ways consistent with the auteur theory and the realism film theory.This dissertation consists of five chapters and a conclusion. Chapter one, trace the origin of the auteur theory and the realism film theory, set up theoretical foundation and critical strategies for the discussion of Jia’s authorship and his realistic style as a director.Chapter two to chapter four are the cores of the whole dissertation, accomplish the most essential task of this dissertation--unfolding the authorship traces and expressions in Jia Zhangke’s films; discussing the reasons for defining him as realistic film author by closely analyze the themes, attitudes, film techniques and several conventions in his making of films. Firstly, as the director, screenwriter and sometimes producer of his films, Jia Zhangke’s authorship integrates his films by explore the themes of constant change, eternal nostalgia and civilian consciousness. Secondly, Jia Zhangke developed a unique system of film languages to highlight his author comment in his works, such as the open and ambiguous narration structure, the use of long take shots, and the sound and popular music which match up with his styling. Thirdly, he benefited from several movie-related conventions like the moviegoer culture, some classics and art film masters in film history. He also consciously maintained some conventions to sculpture his authorship.Chapter five is to further discuss Jia Zhangke as a constantly developing film author who has been making films under a restrained filmmaking system and an immature market. He explored and developed through the domestic and international environment, making efforts to China’s own art film practice.The conclusion argues that one of the significant values of Jia Zhangke and his films is that his practice could be a exemplification for China’s art film development.