Pleasantille: an existential communication journey

Abstract

In this article the American film Pleasantville, directed by Gary Ross, is analysed from an existential communication perspective. The concepts of authentic and inauthentic modes of existence are highlighted in the critique and the value of dialogue emphasised. The fairy tale film reflects the dual opposites of a Pleasantville ideal where the social ideal is scripted and manipulated and a Pleasantville reality in which individuals communicate authentically out of individual choice. In the end, freedom of choice and authentic communication prevail.