Semiotics of Consumer Culture in Michael Haneke's Films

Abstract

This study's main aim is to examine consumer culture's effects on modern society and the semiotic elements in Michael Haneke's “City Trilogy” film series. The study aims to explain how Haneke criticizes consumer culture by using film language and symbols. The study mainly uses the semiotic analysis methods of Greimas and Barthes. In Haneke's films, he addresses themes of social isolation, violence, and alienation caused by consumer culture and provides deep meanings to his audience through visual signs and images. Particularly in the sequels, Haneke emphasizes the themes of the city, media, and violence, highlighting the detrimental effects of individualism in isolating people from society and increasing their sensitivity. This film series presents a highly critical perspective on consumption, suggesting that individuals can only gain freedom by distancing themselves from this concept.