The Stillness of Solitude

In this intricately argued and elegantly written book, Michelle Devereaux offers an inventive, original take on American independent film, arguing that works by Wes Anderson, Charlie Kaufman, Sofia Coppola and Spike Jonze exemplify “neoromanticism”. [...] The Stillness of Solitude: Romanticism and Contemporary American Independent Film will serve as a valuable resource for researchers interested in the filmmakers she highlights, for each chapter offers a stand-alone analysis of one director’s film. -- Suzanne Ferriss, Nova Southeastern University * Film-Philosophy Volume 25, Issue 2 *
While other thinkers have gestured towards the complementarity of Romanticism and contemporary art, none have done so in such a thorough and thoughtful manner. Michelle Devereaux’s monograph breaks new ground by placing Romantic art and philosophy in conversation with cutting-edge American independent cinema, and in so doing presents both in a new light. Rich in detail and beautifully written, Devereaux’s readings of films by the likes of Wes Anderson and Sofia Coppola illuminate the connections between the Romantic era and our present moment. But more than this, in deepening our understanding of mankind’s enduring feelings of anxiety and isolation, her book offers a first step in their overcoming. -- Dr. Catherine Wheatley, King's College London
While other thinkers have gestured towards the complementarity of Romanticism and contemporary art, none have done so in such a thorough and thoughtful manner. Michelle Devereaux’s monograph breaks new ground by placing Romantic art and philosophy in conversation with cutting-edge American independent cinema, and in so doing presents both in a new light. Rich in detail and beautifully written, Devereaux’s readings of films by the likes of Wes Anderson and Sofia Coppola illuminate the connections between the Romantic era and our present moment. But more than this, in deepening our understanding of mankind’s enduring feelings of anxiety and isolation, her book offers a first step in its overcoming. -- Dr. Catherine Wheatley, King's College London