The Political Mel Brooks

(Hardback)

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Description

The Political Mel Brooks analyzes both Mel Brookss more popular films and his lesser known work to explore how his use of parody and satire, his keen sense of the history of Jewish comedic conventions, and his deep awareness of social issues encompasses a political project that, while often implicit, nonetheless speaks to the enduring political and social impact of his films. Brookss work often employs a nuanced political style that acts as a social commentary against those in power and in favor of oppressed and misunderstood persons. This volume emphasizes Brookss political legacy and his masterful use of parody and satire to craft sophisticated political critiques of dominant culture. Contributors illustrate in a practical and accessible way how to explore how comedic films and television series can employ parody and satire not just to mock generic conventions, but also dominant political ideologies. Scholars of media, film, pop culture, political science, and communication studies will find this volume especially useful.

Author Bio

Samuel Boerboom is associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication and Theatre at Montana State University, Billings. Beth E. Bonnstetter is program director and associate professor of mass communication at Adams State University.