The Vigilante Thriller: Violence, Spectatorship and Identification in American Cinema, 1970-76

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Description

This is a detailed examination of vigilantism in 1970s American film, from its humble niche beginnings as a response to relaxing censorship laws to its growth into a unique subgenre of its own. Cary Edwards explores the contextual factors leading to this new cycle of films ranging from Joe (1970) and The French Connection (1971) to Dirty Harry (1971) and Taxi Driver (1976), all of which have been challenged by contemporary critics for their gratuitous, copycat-inspiring violence. Yet close analysis of these films reveals a recurring focus on the emerging moral panic of the 1970s, a problematisation of Law and Order's role in contemporary society, and an increasing awareness of the impossibility of American myths of identity.

Reviews

There have been many confident critical assertions about the politics of the vigilante thriller. Cary Edwards's thoughtful and insightful book asks us to look again, providing a thorough examination of the genres inheritances, its social and political contexts, and the ways it asks us to identify (or not) with its protagonists. Highly recommended reading for anyone with an interest in this controversial genre, and its wider relationships with American myth, politics and society. * Gregory Frame, Associate Researcher in Film Studies, Bangor University, UK *
The Vigilante Thriller, using theory, cultural touchstones, and key movies of the 1970s, is a timely examination of how political, social, and cultural conflicts reflect ideological shifts at the heart of American society, fifty years ago and today. * Gerald Duchovnay, Founding and General Editor of Post Script: Essays in Film & the Humanities *

Author Bio

Cary Edwards is a Lecturer in Film and Media at Boston College, UK, and Associate Lecturer at the University of Derby, UK. His research interests include political readings of popular cinema (with an emphasis on right wing ideologies) and film-violence. His writing has appeared in Horror Homeroom, Bright Lights Film Journal and on his own website www.cary-edwards.com.