Rape-Revenge Films: A Critical Study

The rape-revenge film is often seen as the lowest depth of cinema, but this second edition demonstrates that diverse and often contradictory treatments of sexual violence exist simultaneously, featuring both famous and unknown movies, controversial and widely celebrated filmmakers, and rape-revenge cinema from around the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 207 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2021
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The rape-revenge genre is frequently regarded as the epitome of exploitative and sensational cinema, appealing solely to a deranged and regressive audience. This second edition, released ten years after the first, continues to evaluate these films and the discussions they engender. A new chapter on women-directed rape-revenge films has been included, a phenomenon that has gained renewed attention since the #MeToo movement erupted in late 2017. This revised edition showcases a wide range of films, from both renowned and obscure filmmakers, featuring controversial and widely acclaimed works as well as rape-revenge cinema from various corners of the globe. It demonstrates that diverse and often conflicting portrayals of sexual violence coexist simultaneously within this genre.

Introduction:
The rape-revenge genre has been widely criticized for its perceived exploitation and sensationalism, often being dismissed as catering solely to a demented and regressive demographic. This perception has led to a widespread rejection of these films, with many considering them to be morally repugnant and harmful to society. However, this second edition of the book seeks to challenge these assumptions and provide a more nuanced understanding of rape-revenge films.

Assessment of Rape-Revenge Films:
In this revised edition, the assessment of rape-revenge films continues, with a focus on their historical context, themes, and representations of sexual violence. The book explores the ways in which these films have been used as a means of empowerment for women and a tool for social commentary on gender inequality and power dynamics. It also examines the ethical implications of depicting sexual violence on screen and the potential for these films to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and attitudes.

Women-Directed Rape-Revenge Films:
A new chapter in this edition explores the phenomenon of women-directed rape-revenge films, a genre that has gained renewed attention since the #MeToo movement exploded in late 2017. Women-directed rape-revenge films have a long history in filmmaking, dating back to the early days of cinema. These films often challenge traditional gender roles and explore the complex emotional aftermath of sexual assault. The chapter discusses the contributions of women filmmakers to the rape-revenge genre and highlights some of the most notable examples of women-directed rape-revenge films.

Diverse and Contradictory Treatments of Sexual Violence:
One of the key findings of this revised edition is that rape-revenge films offer a diverse and often contradictory treatment of sexual violence. While some films portray sexual violence as a tragic and devastating event that can have long-lasting consequences for the victim, others use it as a vehicle for revenge and retribution. The book explores the ways in which these films negotiate the complex moral and ethical dilemmas that arise from depicting sexual violence on screen and the impact that these films have on their audiences.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this revised edition of the book provides a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of rape-revenge films. It challenges the conventional wisdom that these films are inherently exploitative and sensational and offers a more empathetic and critical perspective on their significance. By examining the historical context, themes, and representations of sexual violence in rape-revenge films, the book provides valuable insights into the complex social and cultural issues that these films address. The inclusion of a new chapter on women-directed rape-revenge films further highlights the importance of gender equality and representation in filmmaking and the potential for these films to challenge traditional narratives and promote positive change.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 179 x 257 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476686493
Edition number: 2 Revised edition