In "American Prison Film Since 1930," David F. Gonthier Jr. takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of prison films, offering a comprehensive analysis of their development, themes, and impact on popular culture. Spanning over nine decades of American cinema, Gonthier Jr. delves into the evolution of this genre and its profound societal implications.
The book opens by delving into the early years of prison films, tracing their origins back to the 1930s. Gonthier Jr. emphasizes the significance of influential films like "The Big House" and "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang," which paved the way for future explorations of incarceration on the big screen.
Throughout the book, the author explores various themes and trends that have emerged in prison films over time. He examines the nuanced representation of race, gender, and sexuality, shedding light on how these films reflect and challenge societal attitudes and prejudices. Gonthier Jr. also raises important questions about the effectiveness of the prison system, encouraging readers to consider the potential for reform.
Available on Audible
One of the book's notable strengths is Gonthier Jr.'s meticulous research. He draws from a wide array of sources, including interviews with filmmakers, actors, and scholars, to offer readers a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. This multi-faceted approach provides a well-rounded perspective on the prison film genre and its significance within American culture.
In summary, "American Prison Film Since 1930" is a thought-provoking and engaging read that thoroughly explores a significant genre in American cinema. Gonthier Jr.'s analysis of themes, representation, and societal impact offers valuable insights into the evolution of prison films. Whether one is a film enthusiast, an academic, or simply interested in the intersection of cinema and social issues, this book is undoubtedly worth reading.
What are readers saying?
"American Prison Film Since 1930" by David F. Gonthier Jr. is a book that delves into the world of prison films in American cinema. This book has received mixed reviews, with some praising its in-depth analysis while others criticize its limited focus.
Many reviewers appreciate the author's thorough examination of prison films since 1930. They admire Gonthier's attention to detail and his ability to analyze the themes, characters, and social commentary embedded in these films. Readers find his insights into the portrayal of prison life and the criminal justice system thought-provoking and informative.
The book is praised for its historical context, as it explores the evolution of the prison film genre over the years. Gonthier's exploration of how these films reflect societal attitudes towards crime and punishment, and how they shape public perceptions of the prison system is commendable.
However, some readers express disappointment with the book's exclusive focus on American prison films. They argue that a more global perspective could have provided a broader understanding of the genre and its cultural significance. Additionally, a few reviewers mention that the book lacks analysis of recent prison films, focusing too heavily on earlier decades.
Critics also mention the book's academic language and dense writing style, which they find difficult to engage with. They suggest that Gonthier could have made the content more accessible and appealing to a wider audience by adopting a more approachable writing style.
AmericanPrisonFilm FilmHistory PrisonCinema