Turkish Policy Quarterly: Special Issue on Gender Rights and Freedoms in Turkey and the Arab World: Spring or Winter?

Abstract

In *Beyond the Screen: Emerging Cinema and Engaging Audiences*, Sarah Atkinson explores how contemporary cinema is evolving beyond traditional screen-based formats into integrated networked experiences. Atkinson argues that digital networks are not merely transmedia tools but integral components of a broader, interconnected event where web, mobile, and other media forms intertwine organically. The book examines the "complete dissolution" (6) of platform boundaries, offering an extensive survey of emerging production trends in cinema. Through case studies and theoretical analysis, Atkinson identifies key themes such as dark, mysterious narratives and reflexive tendencies that blur the lines between fiction and reality. These films often incorporate interactive elements, inviting audiences to engage with the narrative through participatory behaviors like web searches or mobile interactions. The author also presents a typology of portals that bridge fictional worlds with everyday life, highlighting how these extensions invite audience participation. By exploring the grammars, ethics, and production modalities of this dynamic genre, Atkinson provides valuable insights into the future of cinema as an immersive, participatory experience.

(The abstract and keywords were prepared retrospectively for indexing purposes using AI-assisted tools and editorial review, based on the original article. They did not appear in the original publication.)