Race, War, and the Cinematic Myth of America: Dust That Never Settles

The book explores the prevalence of the comic book genre in American culture, perpetuating a subtextual myth about what it means to be an "American" in the contemporary world. It demonstrates the industry's history of popularizing White supremacy and how it can act as propaganda to support dehumanizing U.S. policies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his book, Eric Trenkamp delves into a thought-provoking question that has undoubtedly crossed the minds of many American cinema enthusiasts over the past two decades: "Why is everything superheroes now?" It would be tempting to dismiss Hollywood's recent surge of comic book movies as mere simplistic morality tales, but the reality is far more intricate. Trenkamp argues that the pervasive presence of the comic book genre in American culture perpetuates a subtle myth about what it means to be an "American" in the contemporary world. At the heart of this myth lies the image of Hollywood's ideal American hero: the white male savior.

This book takes a comprehensive journey through the evolution of this ever-changing portrayal of white superiority in American cinema, spanning from the earliest silent Westerns to decades of war films and culminating in the modern-day comic book genre. Through provocative and engaging analysis of a diverse range of Hollywood films, Trenkamp uncovers the industry's history of popularizing white supremacy and its potential to serve as propaganda for supporting dehumanizing U.S. policies both abroad and domestically.

This book holds immense value for scholars and enthusiasts across various fields, including film studies, comic studies, genre studies, American studies, race studies, pop culture, and history. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between cinema, culture, and societal norms, shedding light on the ways in which films can shape public perception and influence political discourse. By examining the historical trajectory of white supremacy in American cinema, Trenkamp provides a critical lens through which to understand the ongoing challenges and complexities of race and identity in the United States.

In conclusion, Eric Trenkamp's book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of cinema, culture, and societal dynamics. It offers a thought-provoking examination of the enduring myth of white superiority in American cinema and its implications for our understanding of race, identity, and power. Through its comprehensive analysis and engaging approach, this book provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Hollywood and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of the United States.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 239 x 161 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793647504