The Contemporary Western: An American Genre Post-9/11

By John White

Book Overview

The September 11th attacks in 2001 and the subsequent 'War on Terror' have had a profound effect on American cinema, and the contemporary Western is no exception. In this book, John White explores how films such as Open Range, True Grit and Jane Got a Gun reinforce a conservative myth of America exceptionalism; endorsing the use of extreme force in dealing with enemies and highlighting the importance of defending the homeland. Placing their characters within a dark world of confusion and horror, these films reflect the United States' post-9/11 uncertainties, and the conflict between civilised values and the brutality employed to defend them.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1474427928
• ISBN13: 9781474427920
• Release Date: May 2019
• Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.2" x 9.2"