In this study, Vera Dika explores works of art and film that resist the pull of the past. Her study positions avant-garde art work within the context of contemporary mainstream film practice, as well as in relationship to their historical moment.

Vera Dika explores the reuse of images, plots and genres of film history from a broad range of critical perspectives. Examining works of art and film that resist the pull of the past, Dika provides an in-depth analysis within a variety of media, including performance, photography, Punk film, and examples from mainstream American and European cinema. Her study analyzes avant-garde art work within the context of contemporary mainstream film practice, as well as in relationship to their historical moment.