Nolan and the Existential Mindset

Nolan and the Existential Mindset

Since 1998, Christopher Nolan has been writing, producing and directing cerebral independent, and blockbuster films. Nolan has developed a unique method of storytelling, and has trademarked his films by often using non-linear storytelling (Kenneally). Nolan is also noted for creating involving films containing concepts based on abstract breaks with conventional behavior and idealism (Buchanan). One of Nolan’s most renowned film endeavors is his 2005 reboot of the DC comics Batman franchise, through a trilogy of films (Oxoby). The trilogy was incredibly successful, winning 133 awards and 179 nominations (Dargis). Throughout the progression of Christopher Nolan’s famous Batman saga, he cleverly incorporates elements of existentialism through the characterization, plot, and setting of his films.

Born on July 30th, 1970 Christopher Johnathan James Nolan had an unconventional childhood. He was raised in both Chicago and London as his mother was from America and his father from Britain (Biography.com). From a young age Nolan yearned to make large-scale films in the style of directors like Ridley Scott and Michael Man (Itzkoff ). Nolan made his first film short at the age of 7 (Biography.com) Nolan went on to have a successful education in film; he studied English Literature at University College London and actively partook in the University’s film society (Buchanan). Nolan began his film career using 16 mm cameras to shoot short films like Tarantula (Biography.com).

Nolan promotes existentialism via the lines and the characterization portrayed within his films of the Batman trilogy. Batman Begins is riddled with existential ideas in the lines of Bruce Wayne. Nolan introduces Bruce Wayne as the protagonist of the film series, he has had a troubled childhood after witnessing the death of his parent’s and he is hellbent on avenging their death and this drive marks the beginning of his development as an existential character...