Cinema and Modernity

John Orr is the author of several previous books including, The Making of the Twentieth Century Novel (1987) and Cinema and Fiction (co-author, 1992).

• List of Illustrations. Preface.Acknowledgements.1. Film and the Paradox of the Modern.2. Tragicomedy and the Cool Apocalypse.3. The Double and the Innocent.4. The Power of the Gaze.5. The Absent Image and the Unreal Object.6. Commodified Demons I: The Machine and the Mask.7. Commodified Demons II: The Automobile.8. The Strange Passions of Film Noir.Notes.Select Bibliography.Select Filmography.Index.

'This book offers a refreshing re-appraisal of some of the more interesting trends in western cinema from the late 1950s to the mid 1970s. Cinema and Modernity is a thoughtful and stimulating contribution to film scholarship which successfully combines critical insight with an acute awareness of the cultural and political forces which shaped western industrial society in the post-war world.' Duncan Petrie, British Film Institute 'The most refreshing aspect about this very readable book is its perspective. The author discusses a wide range of European and American films, including a number of contemporary titles, in the light of the major cultural and political forces which have shaped Western industrial society this century. Provocative, challenging. Recommended.' Media Information Australia '... The discussion ranges widely.... There is a great deal of interesting material here. The book has many rewards and insights. ... The discussions of particular films... are the best things about this book. Often what is said is suggestive, inviting a re-reading or re-assessment of the works.' British Journal of Aesthetics '... Engaging and intelligent analysis of post-war cinema... I have no compunction in recommending this work to students and scholars alike as a central text for any discussion of modernity and film.' Sociology '... A fine polemical introduction to the nature of cinemagraphic experience as a mirror of culture.' The Reader's Review