Buridan's Donkey (film)

Buridan's Donkey (film) refers to a hypothetical or theoretical film, rather than an actual, completed work. The title draws upon the philosophical paradox known as Buridan's ass (or donkey). The paradox illustrates a situation where an agent, traditionally an ass or donkey, is presented with two equally desirable and accessible options. Lacking any rational basis to choose one over the other, the agent is paralyzed by indecision and ultimately starves to death.

The "Buridan's Donkey (film)" title is therefore usually employed metaphorically. It signifies a film project that:

• Suffers from creative paralysis: The filmmakers or writers are stuck in development hell, unable to decide between equally appealing (or equally unappealing) options for the plot, characters, or overall direction. The project stagnates.
• Explores themes of existential choice and indecision: The film, if it existed, would likely delve into the psychological effects of being faced with difficult or seemingly meaningless choices, and the consequences of inaction. The narrative might feature characters struggling to make decisions, paralyzed by analysis, and unable to commit to a particular path.
• Represents an unrealized or unfilmable concept: The very nature of the premise might be deemed too abstract or challenging to translate into a compelling cinematic experience. The film remains a theoretical exercise, more suited to philosophical debate than practical production.

The term is often used in film criticism, screenwriting circles, and film studies as a shorthand way to describe projects exhibiting these qualities without necessarily implying a judgment on the project's overall merit or potential. It acknowledges the inherent difficulties and complex decision-making processes involved in creating a film. It suggests that the film's biggest hurdle is not necessarily technical or financial, but rather the intractable nature of creative choices themselves.