A new stage : neoformalist analysis of Robert Altman's theater-to-film adaptations of the 1980s

In the 1980s, Robert Altman turned his creative energies to directing a series of film adaptations of contemporary plays. These films—Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean, Streamers, Fool for Love, and Beyond Therapy—have some notable thematic and stylistic similarities, yet each presents a distinct approach to the process of transferring a stage work to the screen. Although much has been written about Altman's life and films through the 1970s, these more recent adaptations have yet to receive detailed individual study. This dissertation aims to provide such an analysis of the four films, their connections with one another, and Altman's approaches to the broad issue of adaptation. Neoforraalist analysis of the four works allows for organized and specific exploration of each film's plot, characters, themes, and stylistic qualities. Each chapter of the dissertation builds on those before it. pointing out significant links and differences among the films while also addressing each film as a separate work. Ultimately, one broad theme is found to be important in all four films, and other significant narrative and stylistic traits link the films in groups of two or three. Each film is. however, very much a unique piece, and Altman varies his approach to adaptation from film to film, decreasing the level of fidelity to his original source as he moves through the four works. While the films are not total successes, this dissertation finds much of value to discuss in terms of narrative, cinematic style, and Altman's ideas and visions as a director working in the area of play-to-film adaptation.