Post-Crisis European Cinema: White Men in Off-Modern Landscapes

This book explores the cinematic representations of the 21st century's socio-cultural change in Europe and the world, focusing on the new formations of masculinity and the shifts in cinematic representation. It argues that the 9/11 terrorist attacks changed our fundamental expectations about history and the cultural logic of our civilization, and the book is interdisciplinary, interested in what the 21st century brought to Europe and its white men.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 273 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the profound socio-cultural transformations that the 21st century has brought about, impacting both Europe and the world. Through a comprehensive analysis of films like "I, Daniel Blake," "Cold War," and "Jupiters Moon," it offers a distinctive perspective on "post-crisis" and gendered representations. By integrating a complex theoretical framework with a socially engaged interdisciplinary approach, the book explores the emerging contours of masculinity in a rapidly changing socio-economic landscape. Author Kalmar argues that the series of crises, beginning with the 9/11 terrorist attacks, has reshaped our understanding of history, challenged our grand narratives, and fundamentally altered the cultural logic of our globalized civilization.

The central focus of the book lies in examining how cinema reflects, interprets, and shapes the ever-evolving world. It delves into the pressing issues of the times, the emergence of new identity formations, and the shifts in cinematic representation. This interdisciplinary research endeavors to explore both the unique contributions of the 21st century to Europe and its white men, as well as the film's responses to these socio-cultural changes.

The book is organized into several chapters, each exploring different aspects of the cinematic representations of socio-cultural change. It begins by examining the impact of globalization on European societies and the emergence of new forms of masculinity. The author then explores how films like "I, Daniel Blake" and "Jupiters Moon" depict the struggles and resilience of marginalized individuals in the face of economic and social adversity.

Another chapter focuses on the representation of gender and sexuality in contemporary cinema, exploring how films challenge traditional gender norms and explore the complexities of human relationships. The book also examines the role of cinema in shaping public discourse and influencing social attitudes towards gender, race, and class.

Throughout the book, Kalmar employs a rich theoretical framework to analyze the films and their socio-cultural significance. He draws on a range of disciplines, including gender studies, cultural studies, and film theory, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the changing landscape of masculinity and cinema.

In conclusion, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the cinematic representations of the 21st century's socio-cultural change. Through its interdisciplinary approach, it provides a nuanced understanding of the emerging contours of masculinity, the challenges faced by marginalized individuals, and the role of cinema in shaping public discourse. It is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the intersection of culture, society, and the media.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030450373
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020