Screen Borders: From Calais to CineMa-Monde

This book explores the visual cultural history of contemporary borders in France and Europe through a film and television tour, tracing on-screen borders from Paris to Calais, London, Lampedusa, and Lapland. It argues that different mobilities and immobilities, as well as vantage points, contribute to a complex French and European border narrative.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The captivating world of film and television provides invaluable insights into the complex dynamics of social outlooks on borders in France and Europe, offering a rich tapestry of visual cultural history. In this captivating book, we embark on a mesmerizing journey through the lens of film and television, exploring the ever-evolving landscapes of contemporary borders. From the bustling Gare du Nord train station in Paris to the picturesque shores of Calais, the bustling streets of London, the desolate beauty of Lampedusa, and the enchanting landscapes of Lapland, we trace the on-screen borders that shape our understanding of these regions.

What sets this book apart is its unwavering commitment to examining the multifaceted aspects of borders. It recognizes that borders are not merely physical barriers but are also woven into the fabric of diverse mobilities and immobilities, encompassing refugees, urban commuters, workers in a post-industrial landscape, and countless others who navigate the intricate web of borders daily. Moreover, it acknowledges that vantage points, ranging from the serene borderland forests, bustling ports, bustling train stations, bustling airports, and bustling refugee centers, play a crucial role in shaping our perception of these boundaries.

Within the pages of this book, we delve into a vast array of examples, encompassing popular films and TV series, as well as auteur fiction and documentaries crafted by renowned directors from across Europe and beyond. Each film and television piece serves as a window into the rich tapestry of the French and European border narrative, shedding light on the complexities, challenges, and triumphs that accompany the ever-changing landscape of these regions.

Through our exploration of these cinematic and televisual narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences, perspectives, and struggles that arise at the intersections of borders. We witness the resilience of individuals who have crossed these boundaries, seeking a better life and a sense of belonging. We also explore the challenges faced by border officials, law enforcement agencies, and humanitarian organizations as they strive to maintain order, protect human rights, and provide support to those in need.

In conclusion, film and television offer a unique lens through which to examine the complex dynamics of social outlooks on borders in France and Europe. This book serves as a testament to the power of visual storytelling, providing a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the ever-evolving landscapes of contemporary borders. As we immerse ourselves in these narratives, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities, challenges, and opportunities that arise at the intersections of cultures, nations, and borders.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 242 x 164 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526164230