A Study on the Core Elements and Narrative Strategies of Spatial Narratives in Cyberpunk Films — An Exploration Based on Grounded Theory

Abstract

Abstract: With the development of digital imaging technology and immersive media, spatial narratives in cyberpunk films have opened up new avenues for research on image-based storytelling and the construction of virtual space. This study applies grounded theory and utilizes MAXQDA 2022 to systematically analyze the key elements of spatial narratives in cyberpunk films, based on a sample of 188 diverse textual materials. Through this process, 91 codes, 42 concepts, 12 categories, and 4 main categories were extracted, leading to the construction and empirical validation of a theoretical model of spatial narrative. This paper proposes a spatial narrative strategy framework that integrates narrative functions with symbolic meanings, thereby expanding the theoretical perspective on spatial storytelling in cyberpunk cinema.