Retrospective (from Latin retrospectare, "look back") generally means to take a look back at events that already have taken place.

Arts

In a more specific sense, the term commonly refers to an exhibition of a selection of art work.

In visual arts, a retrospective is an art exhibition presenting the life work of an artist.

In film as an art form, a retrospective is a representative selection of films of a specific director, actor or other member of crew, or pertaining to a specific cinematic genre or era. Retrospectives are common part of film festivals, but may also be presented by local movie theaters.

Medicine

The term is also used in medicine, describing a look back at a patient's medical or lifestyle history.