Breaking the fourth wall

What does the term mean by 'breaking the fourth wall'? Breaking the fourth wall is when characters in films talk to the audience, me...

What does the term mean by 'breaking the fourth wall'? Breaking the fourth wall is when characters in films talk to the audience, meaning they ignore the 'imaginary' wall that keeps the actors from the audience. This occurs when they express their inner thoughts, when they acknowledge they're in a film, or when they vent towards the camera (audience). 

Breaking the fourth wall helps the character to connect with the audience, and helps them to understand the character's persona & emotions better. It makes the scene feel more interactive and relatable in comparison to the viewer's lifestyle. Furthermore, it implies a more positive reaction towards the overall film. Because of these reasons, breaking the fourth wall is a technique I would consider using in my own coursework.  

Examples: 


''American Psycho''


''Ferris Bueller's day off''



''Spaceballs''


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