After emerging in the late 19th century through the advent of modern realism in the theater, the convention of breaking the fourth wall transitioned seamlessly into other mediums upon their respective developments. Television, video games, and of course throughout film.

It refers to a metaphorical “wall” that remains transparent to audiences, allowing them to see clearly through and onto the stage, while the characters remain unaware of anything that lies therebeyond. That’s where the tactic of “breaking” this wall comes into play, allowing the respective creatives behind the scenes to engross the audience in the live-action story by having the characters address them directly. That’s one way to do it.

The characters in a given, fourth wall-breaking project can also refer to themselves as characters to fit the definition, or make references to the plot. As a theatrical convention, breaking the fourth wall has been around in practice...