Screening History : Book Review

"Screening History" by Gore Vidal is a captivating exploration of the relationship between filmmaking and its influence on our understanding of history. Vidal, well-known for his insightful and thought-provoking writings, takes readers on a journey through the complex world of historical cinema, shedding light on the intersection of politics, power, and art.

The book is divided into three sections, each examining a different aspect of the historical film genre. In the first section, Vidal delves into the inner workings of Hollywood, revealing how ideology and market forces shape the content and production of historical movies. Through his analysis of films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "Ben-Hur," he demonstrates how these narratives contribute to the collective memory of the past.

Moving into the second section, Vidal critically analyzes historical epics like "Cleopatra" and "Spartacus," highlighting their underlying ideological motivations and questioning the accuracy of their portrayals. He skillfully dissects these films, offering a nuanced perspective on the political forces at play and the potential distortions they introduce to historical narratives.

The third section explores the realm of documentary filmmaking, where Vidal examines landmark documentaries such as "The Battle of Algiers" and "Shoah." He celebrates their commitment to presenting history as it truly was, free from myth-making tendencies, and explores the potential for a more accurate representation of historical events through this medium.

Throughout the book, Vidal's sharp intellect and astute observations challenge our understanding of history and its interpretation through film. He prompts readers to critically analyze the narratives presented to us, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the past. Whether one is a history enthusiast or a film buff, "Screening History" serves as an illuminating guide to the intricate relationship between history, cinema, and power.

What are readers saying?

Gore Vidal's book, 'Screening History,' has received a range of feedback from readers. Some readers admire Vidal's insightful examination of the film industry and its impact on history, while others have criticized the book for being overly dense and lacking coherence.

Many readers appreciate Vidal's profound understanding of cinema and his ability to analyze historical events through the lens of film. They find his writing informative and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on familiar topics. Numerous reviewers applaud Vidal's attention to detail and his skill in drawing connections between different films and historical periods.

However, there are also readers who find 'Screening History' to be a challenging read. They view Vidal's writing style as overly academic and difficult to engage with, making it challenging to grasp the material. Some reviewers note that the book lacks a clear structure, making it hard to follow the author's arguments and ideas.

Another point of contention among readers is Vidal's inclination to interject his own personal opinions into the analysis. While some appreciate the author's strong voice and unapologetic approach, others feel that his biases detract from the objectivity of the work. This has led to divided opinions, with some readers considering Vidal's perspectives refreshing and others finding them biased and unconvincing.

Despite the mixed reviews, most readers agree that 'Screening History' offers valuable insights into both film and history. Those interested in the intersection of these two subjects may find this book to be worthwhile, although it may require a certain level of dedication and patience to fully appreciate Vidal's complex analysis.

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