About the book
Though Elvis Presley's music is widely credited as starting a sea change in American popular culture, his films are often dismissed as superficial. Beyond the formulaic plotlines and the increasingly weaker songs, however, the films are rich with resonance to the changing times in which they were produced (roughly 1955-1970). They were also a means by which Elvis communicated deeply felt autobiographical material to his fan base, although in the guise of lighthearted escapist fare. This work takes a new stand, maintaining that Elvis's 31 Hollywood features and two documentaries reveal a profound statement from the star and auteur. Analyzing each film in detail and exploring the body of work as a whole, Brode reveals the Elvis persona as a contemporary Candide, attempting to navigate an ever changing social and political landscape.
Editions of Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780786425266
- PDF
- ISBN 9781476605487
Read an Excerpt
Though Elvis Presley's music is widely credited as starting a sea change in American popular culture, his films are often dismissed as superficial. Beyond the formulaic plotlines and the increasingly weaker songs, however, the films are rich with resonance to the changing times in which they were produced (roughly 1955-1970). They were also a means by which Elvis communicated deeply felt autobiographical material to his fan base, although in the guise of lighthearted escapist fare. This work takes a new stand, maintaining that Elvis's 31 Hollywood features and two documentaries reveal a profound statement from the star and auteur. Analyzing each film in detail and exploring the body of work as a whole, Brode reveals the Elvis persona as a contemporary Candide, attempting to navigate an ever changing social and political landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture about?
Though Elvis Presley's music is widely credited as starting a sea change in American popular culture, his films are often dismissed as superficial. Beyond the formulaic plotlines and the increasingly weaker songs, however, the films are rich with resonance to the changing times in which they were produced (roughly 1955-1970). They were also a means by which Elvis communicated deeply felt autobiographical material to his fan base, although in the guise of lighthearted escapist fare. This work takes a new stand, maintaining that Elvis's 31 Hollywood features and two documentaries reveal a profound statement from the star and auteur. Analyzing each film in detail and exploring the body of work as a whole, Brode reveals the Elvis persona as a contemporary Candide, attempting to navigate an ever changing social and political landscape.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture?
The Arts > Performing arts > Films, cinema
Where can I read a sample of Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780786425266
How long is Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture and how many pages does it have?
Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture has 319 page(s)
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture?
Douglas Brode
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture is available as paperback(ISBN 9780786425266) and pdf(ISBN 9781476605487)
Where can I buy Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture from below
Where can I buy Elvis Cinema and Popular Culture?