Some storytellers prefer their characters directly talking to the audience and these TV shows and movies understood their assignment when it came to breaking the fourth wall!
We’re all guilty of falling for fictional characters and having imaginary conversations with them in our minds. Breaking the fourth wall technique is when in fact the character makes that wish come true by addressing us directly. They acknowledge our presence and make us feel like we’re a part of this fictional world too. Directors often take this route so that the protagonist can build a deeper connection with the audience and also for better comedic reactions. There’s just something special about a character talking to you. The fact that they know we exist and want to take us along on their adventures feels so wholesome.
Sometimes they don’t even need to talk, just a simple look at the camera is enough to know what they mean. It makes you feel like you are the character’s confidante and adds a whole new meaning to a 3-D experience. Breaking the fourth wall also feels relatable as we, too, have so many thoughts about a particular person or situation, and we’ve had multiple conversations with ourselves about it. In the same way, it’s just the character's way of letting things out. There's also been a recent increase in breaking the fourth wall in women-centric movies and TV shows. Simply so that it feels like the character is more in charge of telling her story the way she wants. While this always seems like a fun and different way of filmmaking, if not handled well can, it can go completely haywire and also confuse the audience.
Also Read: Ketchup Cut: Fleabag mastered the art of black comedy with finesse
These movies and TV shows completely got it right and were super fun to watch!
Fleabag- Prime Video
A socially awkward woman with an unusual sense of humor tries to cope with trauma and navigate love and life. One of the best examples of breaking the fourth wall as we were a part of the story even at the most crucial moments.
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law- Disney+Hotstar
Jennifer Walters’ life turns upside down when she unexpectedly becomes She-Hulk and now has to deal with the aftermath of it.
Enola Holmes- Netlfix
Following the footsteps of her famous brother Sherlock Holmes, Enola Holmes is determined to solve mysteries while also fighting misogyny.
Deadpool- Apple TV
Ajax, a twisted scientist, experiments on Wade Wilson, a mercenary, to cure him of cancer and give him healing powers. However, the experiment leaves Wade disfigured and he decides to exact revenge.
Persuasion- Netflix
Anne Elliot must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.
Paava Kadhaigal- Netflix
A Tamil, anthology drama film that consists of four short films, Paava Kadhaigal shows Kalki Koechlin playing Penelope in 'Love Panna Uttranum' breaking the fourth wall when she wants to share her feelings with the audience.
The Office- Netflix
A hilarious sitcom about the functioning of an American workplace, filmed in a documentary style where literally each and every character speaks to the audience.
The Wolf of Wall Street- Prime Video
The real-life story of Wall Street stockbroker Jordan Belfort and how he cheats his way to the top after the Wall Street crash.
Chewing Gum- Google Play Movies & TV
Tracey Gordon opens up doors to us while she is on her journey from adolescence to womanhood. She is constantly conflicted between her strict religious beliefs and her pure love for Beyonce.
Annie Hall- Google Play Movies & TV
Alvy Singer, a divorced Jewish comedian, reflects on his relationship with ex-lover Annie Hall, an aspiring nightclub singer, which ended abruptly just like his previous marriages.
Which of these is your favorite when it comes to breaking the fourth wall? Let us know in the comments below!
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