The Representation Of Non-Linear Time In Hollywood Science Fiction Films

Time,has always been a fundamental element in the composition of a work of art.In linear narrative films,time is continuous and singularly directed.However,with the introduction of Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum mechanics,non-linear time began to become a favored theme for creators.In science fiction movies,which are strongly associated with scientific theories and modern technology,are full of thoughts and questions about non-linear time.In the 1980s and 1990s,classic science fiction films such as "Back to the Future" and"The Terminator" emerged in Hollywood.They all involve time travel and time-travel,which are non-linear time themes,but still follow the linear narrative structure of classic Hollywood as a whole.Along with the popularity of non-linear narratives and mystery movies,non-linear time such as "ring time","time rewind" and "parallel time" became important themes in science fiction movies,the shape of time became complex and diverse.In 2023,the 95th Academy Awards gave a series of awards including Best Picture and Best Director to the science fiction film "Everything Everywhere All at Once".The"non-linear time" in the film has not only become the key to drive the plot,but also a narrative means to mark the characteristics of the film,and with the visual upgrade brought by the emerging special effects,it gradually presents distinctive aesthetic characteristics.Therefore,this paper selects the classic Hollywood science fiction films in the past 30 years.In the first chapter,the concepts of science fiction films and nonlinear time are briefly introduced.In the second chapter,the narrative models of "nonlinear time"are divided into three categories:"time restructuring","multi-temporal juxtaposition of time" and "garden path of time".In the third chapter,the formal characteristics of the three types of nonlinear science fiction films are analyzed in terms of cinematography,editing and other audiovisual narratives,and the audiovisual logic of the three types of films is summarized as "indeterminate physical reference","impossible spatial iconography" and "unending physical nomadism".In the fourth chapter,I summarize the shift of creative preferences of Hollywood science fiction films from three aspects:form,theme,and aesthetics,and learn some insights from them.Ultimately,this paper argues that the nonlinear time in Hollywood science fiction films has overturned the traditional concept of time and space and broken the coherence emphasized by linear narratives,and has become freer in terms of plot setting and audiovisual practice.In the past 30 years,the film has gradually completed the"demystification" of science fiction themes and the "alienation" of the real world.From the early text-based non-linear time to the pursuit of more unique narrative,audiovisual innovation,and finally completed the leap from "non-linear storytelling" to" non-linear story world".