Misreading the Tradition: An Intertextual Study of Influence through Filmmakers Quentin Tarantino and Lokesh Kanagaraj

Abstract

Cinema is a dynamic environment that facilitates the exchange between directors and audiences, mediated through film, where artistic vision and interpretation engage with the narratives, visuals, and themes presented on screen. In this cinematic trinity, during the phase of viewer response, the creator’s detachment becomes an interplay between the films and the audiences, leading to a pivotal moment in meaning-making as an expression of independent free will. This article explores the nuanced ambiguities within the cinematic realm, delving deeply into the complexities inherent in the meaning-making process. With meticulous focus, the article's primary objective is to discern the subtle yet crucial distinction between understanding and misunderstanding the concept of intertextuality, a central theme in film analysis. Through this investigation, the article probes into the diverse consequences of these divergent interpretations and emphasises their profound impact on audience perception and cinematic discourse. Additionally, the article scrutinises the intricate relationships intertwining filmmakers, films, and audiences in the elaborate construction of significance within the cinematic landscape. Within this analytical framework, a comparative analysis unfolds, drawing insightful parallels between two eminent directors, Quentin Tarantino and Lokesh Kanagaraj. Through their shared cinematic space, the article aims to dissect and comprehend their filmmaking styles, narrative techniques, and thematic choices, elucidating the varying approaches to intertextuality.