London, 2012 (but actually published in 2011). Paperback. Illustrated.
Fantasy addresses a previously neglected area within Film Studies. The book looks at the key aesthetics, themes, debates and issues at work within this increasingly popular genre and examines influential films and franchises that illustrate these concerns. Recent case study film series discussed will include:
- Harry Potter (Various, 2001-2011)
- Lord of the Rings (Peter Jackson, 2001-2003)
- Pirates of the Caribbean (Gore Verbinski 2003-2007)
- The Chronicles of Narnia (Various, 2005-ongoing)
The authors also consider fantasy film and its relationship to myth, legend and fairytale, examining its important role in contemporary culture. The book provides an historical overview of the genre and its evolution, contextualising each fantasy film within its socio-cultural period and with reference to relevant critical theory.
This is the perfect introduction to the world of fantasy film and offers a spring board to investigations into the links and associations made between film and gender, sexuality, psychology, philosophy, religion and more.*
