Over the last decade, a realist tendency has made its mark on the world cinema map. What are its main aesthetic and political characteristics? How does it relate to the realist canon and world cinema history? What are the different facets of this phenomenon as expressed in diverse cinemas across the globe?

Drawing on foundational realist theories and recent takes on the body and the senses, this illuminating book aims to provide in-depth answers to these questions by examining the fascinating work of Carlos Reygadas (Mexico), Tsai Ming-liang (Taiwan) and Gus Van Sant (US), including...