Cinemas of Boyhood: Masculinity, Sexuality, Nationality

Cinemas of Boyhood explores the representation of boys and boyhood in film from various genres, eras, and countries, highlighting the significant yet often overlooked topic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Drawing from a rich tapestry of political sociology, pop psychology, and film studies, Cinemas of Boyhood delves into the profound yet often overlooked realm of boys and boyhood in the world of cinema. This comprehensive collection showcases a diverse array of films, spanning from the British and Indian film industries to the silent era of Hollywood and the vibrant new Hollywood of the 1980s. It culminates in a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted issues surrounding the portrayal of boyhood in film, offering a comprehensive exploration of this captivating subject matter.

In the realm of film, the representation of boys and boyhood has often been relegated to the background, overshadowed by the dominant narratives of femininity and masculinity. However, as Cinemas of Boyhood demonstrates, this subject matter is of paramount importance and deserves to be explored in greater depth. By drawing from a diverse range of disciplines, the book offers a multi-faceted perspective on the portrayal of boys in film, shedding light on the complex interplay of social, cultural, and psychological factors that shape their experiences and identities.

One of the key themes that emerge from the book is the notion of performativity. Cinemas of Boyhood argues that the construction of boyhood is not a natural or inherent process, but rather a performance that is shaped by a range of external factors, including media, popular culture, and societal norms. The films featured in the collection serve as powerful examples of how these factors can shape the way boys are portrayed, often reinforcing gender stereotypes and perpetuating harmful norms.

Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the role of fathers in the portrayal of boys. While traditional narratives often depict fathers as absent or neglectful, Cinemas of Boyhood shows that fathers can play a vital role in shaping their sons' identities and experiences. The films highlight the complex dynamics between fathers and sons, exploring themes of love, support, and conflict, and offering a nuanced portrayal of the role that fathers can play in promoting healthy boyhood development.

The book also addresses the issue of race and ethnicity in the portrayal of boys. While boys of color have historically been marginalized and underrepresented in mainstream cinema, Cinemas of Boyhood showcases a range of films that challenge these stereotypes and offer a more inclusive representation of boys from diverse backgrounds. These films highlight the experiences and struggles of boys of color, offering a powerful counterbalance to the dominant narratives of whiteness and masculinity.

In addition to its exploration of the portrayal of boys and boyhood, Cinemas of Boyhood also offers valuable insights into the broader cultural and social implications of these representations. The book explores how films shape our understanding of gender, sexuality, and identity, and how they contribute to the perpetuation of harmful norms and stereotypes. It also examines the role of film in promoting social change and challenging dominant narratives, offering a hopeful vision for a more inclusive and diverse future.

Overall, Cinemas of Boyhood is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the portrayal of boys and boyhood in the world of cinema. By drawing from a diverse range of disciplines and perspectives, the book provides a valuable contribution to the field of film studies and offers a powerful lens through which to examine the complex and multifaceted issues surrounding the construction of boyhood. Whether you are a scholar, a film enthusiast, or simply interested in understanding the world around you, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the role of boys and boyhood in the world of film.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 229 x 181 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789209945