Abstract:
The aim of this study is to investigate the concept of cinematic escapism facilitated by
means of auteurism, with a particular focus on the directorial works of Imtiaz Ali. The
study explores how directorial approaches, including the application of music, changes in
the physical appearance of characters, and dialogues, form a cinematic environment that
depicts instances of escapism. Previous research has established Ali's position as an
auteur, however there is a significant gap in the literature concerning a thorough
examination of the ways in which he utilizes cinematic elements of music, physical
changes, and dialogues to generate escapism across his works. This study aims to define
the function of a director as an auteur and explore the unique cinematic vision and
subsequent influence of the director as an individual on their productions. I argue that this
function is significant as it allows the audience an escape from the everyday life and enter
a world where feelings, dreams, and experiences have no boundaries. This study
combines scholarship from literary studies and cinematic studies to discuss and
problematize the complicated concept of escapism in literary and cultural studies. A
qualitative approach is used to investigate escapism in Ali's films. Upon conducting a
comprehensive examination, it becomes apparent that Ali’s auteurial intentionally utilizes
music, transformations in appearance, and dialogues as effective means to depict
escapism in his cinematic works.
