Cultural Politics of Contemporary Hollywood Film: Power, Culture, and Society

This study explores how Hollywood movies generate and reflect political myths about social and personal life, using three broad categories: security, relationality, and socially critical films. These categories are global political technologies implicated in hegemonic and 'soft power relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This extensive study delves into the intricate mechanisms through which Hollywood movies shape and perpetuate political myths about social and personal life, exerting a significant impact on our understanding of power dynamics. Instead of solely focusing on genre, it employs three broad categories of film: security films, relationalities films, and socially critical films.

Security films present compelling narratives that explore themes related to public order, disorder, citizen-state relations, and the politics of fear. These films shed light on the societal concerns and anxieties that shape our understanding of security and stability.

Relationalities films, on the other hand, delve into the realm of personal and intimate politics, bringing to the forefront norms and expectations associated with identities, gender, and sexuality. These films explore the complex interplay between individuals and their social contexts, challenging societal norms and promoting greater inclusivity and understanding.

Socially critical films take a more overtly political stance, addressing specific issues and ideas with heightened political significance. These films often challenge dominant narratives, expose injustices, and advocate for social change. By examining these categories as global political technologies, the book explores their role in perpetuating hegemonic and 'soft power relations, whose reach extends both deep and wide.

Through a comprehensive analysis of Hollywood movies within these categories, the study provides valuable insights into the ways in which these films shape our perceptions, influence public discourse, and contribute to the construction of political ideologies. It serves as a timely reminder of the power of media in shaping our understanding of the world and the importance of critically examining the messages conveyed through popular culture.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780719082986