Because it's real difficult in life: Annie Hall and the Theatrical Imagination

Authors

Walter C. Metz, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Abstract

Abstract

This paper analyzes the relationship between the theatrical and filmic work of Woody Allen. I begin with an assessment of Mighty Aphrodite’s literal use of the ancient Greek stage. I use this prologue as a frame for developing an intertextual reading of Annie Hall (1977) using George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion (1913). I conclude with a set of reflections that allow the theatrical to be used as a frame for understanding Woody Allen’s films more generally, with a brief case study of Deconstructing Harry (1997).

Recommended Citation

Metz, Walter C. "Because it's real difficult in life: Annie Hall and the Theatrical Imagination." Weber: The Contemporary West 28, No. 2 (Spring 2012): 77-89.