No Relation: The Impact, Imitators and Legacy of David Foster Wallace

Is there any figure in the recent history of American literature who has generated as much cringe-inducing veneration – or as much dismay – as the late David Foster Wallace? During his lifetime, the author of Infinite Jest, Brief Interviews with Hideous Men and many celebrated essays and articles was a cult figure of soaring intellect, dizzying creative ambition and slightly questionable fashion sense. Many were frustrated by his work (New Yorker literary critic James Wood placed his work in the derogatory category of ‘hysterical realism’) while others saw him as a genius. His status as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century has only grown since his death in 2008.

The Melbourne International Film Festival will this year screen The End of the Tour, the critically acclaimed David Foster Wallace biopic starring Jason Segal and Jesse Eisenberg. In partnership with MIFF’s Talking Pictures program, we’ll explore Foster Wallace’s legacy for writers and artists. We’ll discuss his impact on popular culture, the scourge of lesser imitators and how the film celebrates the work of this extraordinary writer.

BYO bandana.

Presented in partnership with Melbourne International Film Festival.