Contemporary Superhero Film: Projections of Power and Identity

Superhero films continue to be popular among audiences worldwide, but they are often critically marginalized. Terence McSweeney's book explores the genre's narrative codes and conventions, its appeal to diverse audiences, and its reflection of contemporary social anxieties and cultural values. It also features extensive analysis of superhero films from all over the world, contrasting them with the dominant U.S. model. The book is accessible and engaging for students, scholars, and enthusiasts at all levels.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2020
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Superhero films have captured the hearts of audiences around the world, with their latest releases drawing massive crowds to theaters. Despite their undeniable popularity, the superhero genre remains critically marginalized, often ignored or maligned. In his book, "Superheroes: A Global History," Terence McSweeney delves into this phenomenon, offering a comprehensive and timely overview of the superhero genre. He explores the narrative codes and conventions that make superhero films appealing to diverse audiences, while also examining their social, ideological, and cultural content. McSweeney argues that superhero films should be considered a barometer of contemporary social anxieties and a reflection of cultural values. He critically analyzes representations of gender, race, and sexuality within the genre and how its conventions relate to and comment on contemporary political debates. The book also features extensive analysis of superhero films from around the world, contrasting them with the dominant American model. McSweeney's accessible and engaging presentation of case studies and critical debates makes the book suitable for students, scholars, and enthusiasts at all levels. By examining the global appeal of superhero films, "Superheroes: A Global History" sheds light on the enduring power of storytelling and the impact of popular culture on society.

Weight: 242g
Dimension: 450 x 216 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231192415