Romance and Power in the Hollywood Eastern

The book explores the idea of the "Eastern" as an analytically significant genre of film, depicting the eastern and southern frontiers of Euro-American expansion. It examines six films, including Gunga Din, Lawrence of Arabia, Heat and Dust, A Passage to India, Indochine, and The English Patient, and reveals the double process by which the "Eastern" both diminishes the East and Global South and reinforces ignorance about these regions' histories and complexity, setting the stage for ever-escalating political aggression.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the realm of the Eastern as a profoundly significant film genre, standing in stark contrast to the Western, the iconic cowboy genre of the American frontier. Spanning the eastern and southern frontiers of Euro-American expansion, the "Eastern" encompasses a wide range of films that vividly portray the historical narratives and cultural tapestry of these regions. Through a meticulous examination of six key films, including Gunga Din (1939), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Heat and Dust (1983), A Passage to India (1984), Indochine (1992), and The English Patient (1996), the author embarks on a profound exploration of the dual nature of the Eastern. These films, carefully selected, offer a captivating blend of aggression and seduction, depicting both conquest and romance in equal measure. By juxtaposing these two contrasting elements, the book aims to unveil a profound double process at play. On the one hand, the "Eastern" serves to diminish the East and the Global South, perpetuating ignorance and reducing their historical significance. This reinforcement of ignorance lays the foundation for escalating political aggression, as it obscures the complex nuances and rich tapestry of these regions. On the other hand, the "Eastern" also possesses a seductive allure, drawing viewers into its captivating narratives and immersing them in the rich cultural tapestry of the East. These films offer a unique perspective on the complexities of human relationships, societal dynamics, and the enduring legacies of history. Through their lens, the book invites us to engage with these regions in a more nuanced and informed manner, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a deeper understanding of the world. In essence, this book serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the Eastern as a genre, shedding light on its complex dynamics and its profound impact on our understanding of the world. It is a testament to the power of film as a medium for storytelling and cultural exploration, offering a valuable contribution to the field of film studies.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030609962
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020