Youth on Screen: Representing Young People in Film and Television

Youth is often represented as troubled and troubling, with an adult perspective on how young people come of age. Youth on Screen provides a historical account of representations of youth in Britain and the United States, covering a range of classics and obscurities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 July 2021
Publisher: Polity Press

From the very beginnings of cinema, an innumerable array of films and television dramas have been presented, offering sensational and captivating portrayals of the lives of young individuals. Youth is commonly linked with vitality, idealism, and physical allure, yet it is frequently portrayed as both troubled and troubling. These representations are almost always crafted by adults, inherently reflecting an adult viewpoint on the process of young people coming of age.

Youth on Screen offers a comprehensive historical exploration of representations of youth in Britain and the United States, spanning a remarkable seventy years. This captivating book encompasses a diverse range of classics, from iconic films like Blackboard Jungle to lesser-known gems like This is England, and from the iconic Jailhouse Rock to the provocative Skins. Written in an engaging and well-structured manner, it serves as an ideal introduction for students and general readers alike.

Throughout its pages, Youth on Screen delves into the intricate ways in which youth have been portrayed on screen, shedding light on the societal, cultural, and political contexts that have shaped these representations. It explores the various themes and narratives associated with youth, such as identity, rebellion, romance, and coming-of-age. The book also examines the impact of these representations on young viewers, exploring how they shape their perceptions of themselves and the world around them.

One of the key strengths of Youth on Screen is its ability to provide a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on the topic. The authors draw upon a wide range of sources, including film and television analysis, interviews with industry professionals, and scholarly research, to offer a comprehensive and balanced account of the history of youth representations on screen. This approach ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, while also being exposed to a diverse range of viewpoints and perspectives.

Moreover, Youth on Screen is visually appealing, with an attractive layout and an abundance of engaging images and illustrations. These visual elements enhance the reading experience and help to bring the historical narratives to life, making it easier for readers to engage with the material and retain information.

In conclusion, Youth on Screen is a must-read for anyone interested in the portrayal of youth on screen. This comprehensive and engaging book offers a valuable historical account of representations of youth in Britain and the United States, providing insights into the societal, cultural, and political contexts that have shaped these portrayals. Written in a clear and accessible manner, it is suitable for students and general readers alike, and will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of the complex and ever-evolving relationship between youth and the media.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 233 x 168 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509545254