What is a Reboot?

Hi Everyone,

I was hoping you could help me with a research project? I am currently putting the finishing touches to a PhD thesis which explores reboots in comics, film and beyond. I am writing my final chapter which investigates how the word has now exploded to mean multiple things to different people. This is not to say that anyone is incorrect but to highlight that the concept now carries a variety of meanings which is an interesting linguistic event. I would like to get your thoughts for inclusion in the thesis (and now book published by New York University Press in 2015) and represent the fan community. All comments with be treated with the utmost respect, but I would like to see a debate or some thoughts from everyone who would like to take part. My aim is to provide a snapshot of a historical moment.

To quote Lord Vader: 'We would be honoured if you would join us!'

For previous academic work which includes fan voices, I recently conducted a research project looking at Star Wars fans responses to the Disney takeover of Lucasfilm. As you can see, I begin by stating my position as fan and respect comments from the community (I gathered over 100 responses from Star Wars fandom online). Article can be accessed here for free: www.participations.org/Volume%2010/Issue%201/12%20Proctor%2010.1.pdf

So, two questions for y'all:

What is a reboot?

Can you offer any examples of rebooting in comics/ film/ TV or other?