Postfeminist Whiteness: Problematising Melancholic Burden in Contemporary Hollywood

Kendra Marston's study of postfeminist cinema explores the politics of whiteness and melancholic white femininity, arguing that it serves as a vehicle to explore the excesses of late capitalism and a crisis of faith in the American dream. It examines film genres such as the tourist romance, fantasy film, and psychological thriller, with case studies of films like The Virgin Suicides, Blue Jasmine, Gone Girl, and The Girl on the Train.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 31 May 2020
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Kendra Marston's groundbreaking research delves into the politics of whiteness in postfeminist cinema, exploring representations of melancholic white femininity as a means to examine the excesses of late capitalism and a crisis of faith in the American dream. While these figures may be idealized or scapegoated, strategic performances of gendered melancholia can offer benefits to white female directors and stars who face disadvantages in a patriarchal industry. Marston's study spans various film genres, including the tourist romance, fantasy film, and psychological thriller, with case studies of films such as "The Virgin Suicides," "Blue Jasmine," "Gone Girl," and "The Girl on the Train." Her analysis reveals how melancholic white femininity is used to critique and challenge dominant narratives, offering a nuanced perspective on the complexities of gender, race, and power in contemporary cinema.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474430302