Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Frequently referred to as the Greatest Generation, Americans of the World War II era were profoundly influenced by Hollywood s depictions of their nation, its role in world affairs, and the virtue of its involvement in World War II. Stories of the bravery and heroism of the American military as well as the moral and political threat posed by the enemy filled movie screens across the country to garner passionate support for wartime policies. In Hollywood Enlists Propaganda Films of World War II, Ralph Donald explores how the studios supported the war effort and profoundly influenced the attitudes of an entire generation. Through such films the studios appealed to the public s sense of nationalism, demonized the enemy, and stressed that wartime sacrifices would result in triumph. The author contends that American films of the World War II era used sophisticated, but often overlooked, strategies of propaganda to ideologically unite the country. By examining major motion pictures including The Flying Tigers, Sergeant York, Casablanca, They Were Expendable, Mrs. Miniver, and many others Donald illustrates how well-known propaganda techniques aligned the nation s entertainment with government aims. While these strategies have long been associated with political speeches and writings during the war, little in-depth consideration has been given to their use in the era s popular entertainment. Hollywood Enlists will appeal to readers with interests in war films and motion picture history, as well as social history, politics, and entertainment."
Synopsis
This book explores how the Hollywood studios used sophisticated strategies of propaganda to ideologically unite the country during WWII. Through such films as Casablanca, They Were Expendable, and others, the studios appealed to the public's sense of nationalism, demonized the enemy, and stressed that wartime sacrifices would result in triumph.