The Language of Memory in Cinema: The Use of Remembrance as a Narrative Tool in Aftersun

This study examines how memory functions as a narrative device in the film Aftersun, where memories are portrayed not merely as tools of recollection but as a means for characters to question their identity and connection to the past. Through visual and narrative strategies, the film presents memories as a narrative language that explores self-identity and relationships. Drawing from feminist theory and memory studies, this research analyzes the film's narrative structure, arguing that remembrance is employed as a method for reconstructing ties to the past and understanding one's self. Aftersun transforms memory into a non-linear, fragmented, and emotional narrative device, offering the audience a deeper insight into the characters’ inner worlds. The purpose of this study is to uncover how memory serves as an effective tool in cinema for reproducing individual experiences and social identities.

Authors

Institutions

Publication Details

Journal
Academic Review of Humanities and Social Sciences
Published
2025-06-20
DOI
https://doi.org/10.54186/arhuss.1585235
Primary Topic
Asian Culture and Media Studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

The Language of Memory in Cinema: The Use of Remembrance as a Narrative Tool in Aftersun

Aslı Kotaman
Academic Review of Humanities and Social Sciences
Asian Culture and Media Studies
article

The Language of Memory in Cinema: The Use of Remembrance as a Narrative Tool in Aftersun

Aslı Kotaman
article en

Abstract

This study examines how memory functions as a narrative device in the film Aftersun, where memories are portrayed not merely as tools of recollection but as a means for characters to question their identity and connection to the past. Through visual and narrative strategies, the film presents memories as a narrative language that explores self-identity and relationships. Drawing from feminist theory and memory studies, this research analyzes the film's narrative structure, arguing that remembrance is employed as a method for reconstructing ties to the past and understanding one's self. Aftersun transforms memory into a non-linear, fragmented, and emotional narrative device, offering the audience a deeper insight into the characters’ inner worlds. The purpose of this study is to uncover how memory serves as an effective tool in cinema for reproducing individual experiences and social identities.

Academic Review of Humanities and Social SciencesVol. 8(1)
University of Bonn (DE)
Openalex Percentile: Top 79%
Asian Culture and Media Studies
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.