Published: May 27, 2024 | Last Updated: October 3, 2025
What is Intertextuality? Definition & Meaning
Intertextuality is treating, reading, and interpreting a text in relation to other texts to extract meaning. Philosopher and literary critic Julia Kristeva coined the term in the 1960s and argued that texts are not isolated creations but are shaped by a network of other texts. This suggests that understanding a text requires recognizing its connections to other works through direct citations, allusions, or more subtle references.
Early on, the understanding of ‘text’ was adapted to fields outside literary criticism. Intertextuality has since found its way into musicology, game studies, and film and media studies.
Types of Intertextuality
You can divide intertextuality into four types: explicit intertextuality, implicit intertextuality, paratextuality, and metatextuality.
Explicit Intertextuality
Explicit intertextuality occurs when a text directly references another text. These references can be quotes, allusions, or even direct mentions of another work. This type of intertextuality is often straightforward and easily identifiable.
Take Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018), for instance, in which the character Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) directly references other characters from the Marvel Universe, breaking the fourth wall and acknowledging the existence of other texts within the same fictional universe.
Implicit Intertextuality
Implicit intertextuality is more subtle. It involves indirect references, such as thematic echoes, stylistic similarities, or shared motifs. These connections may not be immediately obvious but become apparent upon closer analysis.
For example, in The Lion King (1994), the storyline and character dynamics closely resemble elements of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. While the film does not explicitly reference the play, the intertextual connections enrich the narrative.
Paratextuality
Paratextuality involves the supplementary texts surrounding the main text, such as prefaces, introductions, and marketing materials (fx, teasers and trailers). The texts influence how the primary work is perceived and interpreted.
For example, the promotional materials for Blade Runner 2049 (2017) included three animated short films that explain what happens after the original Blade Runner (1982). They show why fewer flying cars exist and why the city looks much darker in 2049 due to the blackout caused by the replicants. Watch all three below – they’re really cool!
Metatextuality
Metatextuality refers to a text’s commentary on another text. This can include critiques, analyses, or discussions within the narrative itself.
An excellent example is Scream (1996), which is famous for its characters who are aware of horror movie tropes and conventions and often reference them. The film serves as a commentary on the horror genre, critiquing and analyzing its tropes and clichés.
Functions of Intertextuality
I often say that there’s a fine line between intertextuality and intellectualism. Intertextuality, first and foremost, speaks to our intellect, and the more we understand the references, the deeper the meaning of the text (movie).
But also, when we understand a reference and get that satisfying “I saw what you did there” moment, it can trigger a wealth of emotions, from pride to nostalgia. Easter eggs are often great examples of intertextuality.
Below is a rundown of intertextuality’s functions and why authors and screenwriters might choose to reference another cultural work.
Create Depth and Complexity
Intertextuality adds layers to a text, enriching its meaning and providing intellectual depth. By referencing other works, a text can trigger a broader range of emotions and ideas that challenge us as an audience.
For example, the TV series Stranger Things (2016–) includes numerous references to 1980s pop culture, from films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) to Stephen King’s novels. The references help create a nostalgic atmosphere while adding layers of meaning.
Encourage Audience Engagement
Intertextual references engage the audience by inviting us to connect and recognize allusions. This can create a sense of participation and have us invest more brainpower in the narrative.
A good example is Ready Player One (2018), which references various elements of pop culture from the 1980s and 1990s. Identifying these references becomes a game for the audience (especially middle-aged folks like myself who grew up in the 80s).
Highlight Themes and Messages
By drawing on existing texts, you can emphasize particular themes or messages. Intertextuality can also provide a critical perspective, allowing you to comment on or critique other works.
A favorite example of mine is The Matrix (1999), which incorporates philosophical and literary references, such as Jean Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulation, to explore themes of reality and perception. It’s even referenced directly in the film, as the book where Neo keeps the hacker codes, which he sells.
How to Use Intertextuality in Screenwriting
Below are some ideas and things to consider if you want to play with intertextuality in your next movie script:
Direct Quotation and Allusion
Direct quotes or explicit allusions to other works can create a strong intertextual connection. Just make sure that the references enhance rather than distract from the narrative.
Thematic Echoes
Incorporating themes from other texts can create a sense of continuity and resonance. You must weave similar themes or motifs into the narrative without overtly referencing the source.
Stylistic Mimicry
Adopting the style or structure of another work can create a subtle intertextual connection. This can include mimicking the referenced text’s narrative structure, visual style, or dialogue patterns.
Character Archetypes
Using well-known character archetypes from other texts can trigger a sense of familiarity and create intertextual links. Playing with these archetypes in new ways is a great way to subvert expectations.
Summing Up
Intertextuality allows you to forge connections between texts. Through direct quotes, thematic reflections, or stylistic mimicry (fx, through parody), intertextuality is a great way to add more layers of meaning to your script.
By using the various types of intertextuality (explicit, implicit, paratextual, and metatextual), you can add layers of meaning and subtext to your screenplay.
A good way to use intertextuality is to identify and analyze intertextual elements in existing works. This article already provides some movie examples, which you can start with, but there are countless more.
Analyze what others don’t and then incorporate it into your work. And remember, you don’t have to reference other films – you can grab intertextual bites from all cultural shelves. This is a great way to contribute to the ongoing dialogue within film and the broader cultural history.
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