MULTIMODALITY AS A WAY OF ANALYSING OF LUCHINO VISCONTI’S FILMOGRAPHY

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the general provisions of the theory of multimodality and to outline its terminological and functional potential for broadening the methodological tools for analysing cinema, in particular the films of Luchino Visconti. The search for new analytical tools was stimulated by the specificity of the director's work, characterised by complex layers of different cultural strata. The retrospective review reveals the conditions for the emergence of the theory of multimodality, which has its origins in the ideas of post-structuralist semioticians. The definitions of text and intertextuality are outlined, and the shortcomings of their application, namely over-generalisation, metaphoricality and linguocentrism, are noted. The likelihood of using the term 'intermediality' is considered and different types of intermedial interaction are identified. A general characterisation of the understanding of multimodality and its components by contemporary researchers is formed, and the possibilities of applying this methodology to film studies are revealed. The basic terminology of the theory is revealed, in particular modes, layers that form communication, the transition from the concept of grammar to semiotic resources, materiality and affords. The ways of transforming one mode into another are outlined. The vectors of inclusion of the theory of multimodality in the further study of Luchino Visconti's filmography are shown. The scientific novelty lies in the disclosure of the possibilities of including multimodal studies in the analysis of Luchino Visconti's films. Conclusions. The theory of multimodality seems to be a powerful methodological tool that offers a concentration on the modes of communication, their semiotic resources, the materiality of their manifestations and offers. It is also a possible way to create a unified methodology for the analysis of multimodal texts. Since L. Visconti's films are complex multimodal texts, which is explained by the multidirectionality of the director's creative personality, multimodality can be a good methodology for further research of the artist's filmography within the framework of given contemporary discourses.