Pleasantville: almost 30 years on, this kaleidoscopic teen romance remains surprisingly relevant
The 1998 film 'Pleasantville' is revisited as a relevant social commentary on the tension between conservative tradition and progressive change. The film uses a transition from black-and-white to color to symbolize the awakening of characters against a rigid, fear-based society.
Why it matters
The film remains a significant cultural touchstone for discussing how fear of progress can lead to political and social oppression.
‘The contrast between greyscale and colour becomes emblematic of the conflict between conservatism and progress’ … Tobey Maguire and Marley Shelton in Pleasantville. Photograph: PictureLux/The Hollywood Archive/Alamy ‘The contrast between greyscale and colour becomes emblematic of the conflict between conservatism and progress’ … Tobey Maguire and Marley Shelton in Pleasantville. Photograph: PictureLux/The Hollywood Archive/Alamy Stream team Movies Pleasantville: almost 30 years on, this kaleidoscopic teen romance remains surprisingly relevant Gary Ross’s 1998 directorial debut offers pointed social commentary about how fear of progress leads to political oppression through innovative use of colour
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