Screening the Hollywood Rebels in 1950s Britain

This book explores censorship, publicity, and teenage fandom in 1950s Britain surrounding controversial Hollywood films, re-examining British films' commentary on juvenile delinquency and the stardom of Marlon Brando, James Dean, and Elvis Presley. It provides a narrative for how Hollywood star images fed into and disrupted British cultural life during a period of unprecedented teenage consumerism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of censorship, publicity, and teenage fandom in 1950s Britain, focusing on a series of controversial Hollywood films that left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. The Wild One, Blackboard Jungle, Rebel Without a Cause, Rock Around the Clock, and Jailhouse Rock serve as the central subjects of examination, while also exploring the British cinema's commentary on juvenile delinquency through a re-examination of notable British films such as The Blue Lamp, Spare the Rod, and Serious Charge. Employing a multi-dimensional approach, the book seamlessly intersects with star studies and social history, offering a fresh perspective on the enduring stardom of Marlon Brando, James Dean, and Elvis Presley. By delving into the specific meanings, pleasures, and uses British fans derived from these films, the book provides a logical and sustained narrative that sheds light on how Hollywood star images intertwined with and disrupted British cultural life during a period of unprecedented teenage consumerism. This insightful exploration offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between popular culture, societal norms, and the evolving teenage mindset, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the dynamic relationship between Hollywood and British society during the mid-20th century.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 159 x 222 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526154484