Overview

Examines how Cold War films depicted pertinent issues of American social class and genderFrom the mid-1940s to the late 1980s American film studios enjoyed commercial success in a range of often overlooked genres, employing a new realism to depict social class structures, capitalist desires and the expansion of the marketplace, and to turn American cultural values comically and subversively against themselves. With case studies of the Cold War comedy, the 'rogue cop' film, the brainwashing thriller and the urban romances that defined the 'new woman', 'Cold War Film Genres' explores these myriad productions, redefining American cinematic history with a more inclusive view of the types of films that post-war audiences actually enjoyed, and that the studios provided for them.Key FeaturesProvides studies of emerging film genres and cycles in the Cold War periodExamines how new genres recast gender and class conditions in terms of defining urban and suburban AmericaReveals new directions and successful strategies in Cold War studio production Charts new developments in film narratives that define American social concerns Refocuses critical attention upon the diverse politics of American film culture

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9781474412940

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Reviews

This collection of essays by established film scholars introduces several new perspectives on subgenres of film produced during the Cold War...The volume is noteworthy for the contributors' ability to deftly balance a variety of critical approaches within a single essay: for example, one contributor breaks down dance steps and then links them to the US's political tensions and pretensions...An accessible and genuinely enjoyable read, this collection will delight readers at all levels. -- V. A. Elmwood, Loyola University New Orleans, CHOICE

Author Information

Homer B. Pettey is Professor Emeritus of Film and Comparative Literature at the University of Arizona. He serves as the founding and general editor for Global Film Directors (Rutgers U.P.), Global Film Studios (Edinburgh U.P.), and International Stars (Edinburgh U.P.).

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