『더 플릭』(The Flick)의 헤테로토피아적 장소성과 시간성

Abstract

This article examines the concepts of heterotopic placeness and time in The Flick by Annie Baker. Set in an old movie theater called the Flick in Worcester, Massachusetts, the play presents this theater not merely as a screening space but as a workplace for its three employees—Sam, Rose, and Avery. Drawing on Michel Foucault’s theory of heterotopia, this article explores how the theater functions as a liminal space where the characters navigate identity, conflict, relationships, and isolation. Although The Flick remains a single physical location, it simultaneously embodies multiple spaces with distinct meanings and functions for each character, underscoring its heterotopic nature. The theater exists at the intersection of past and present, fantasy and reality, friendship and betrayal. Time is also a central thematic element in the play. Baker employs a naturalistic depiction of the passing of time, using slow pacing, repetition, and silences to reveal the nuances of relationships and the depth of her characters’ emotions. Through pauses and silences, she creates an experience of time that feels tangible and immersive for the audience. Ultimately, The Flick is depicted as a layered space where shifting perceptions of place and time shape the characters’ experiences, reflecting the complexities of human connection and personal transformation.