French New Wave – A film movement beginning in the late 50s and throughout the 60s that rose to popularity in Paris. It saw directors obtain full creative control of their work, making more experimental films then following traditional conventions of filmmaking.

Specific stylist and structural elements – These films countered tradition by including the likes of long tracking shots, fourth wall breaks, the breaking of the 180 degree rule, and existential themes. Discontinuity editing, such as jump cuts and freeze frames, was common at this time.

Directors and films that influenced Arthur Penn – François Truffaut (The 400 Blows) and Jean-Luc Godard (Breathless) both were approached during the production of the film.