Murder and the Movies

In his book "Murder and the Movies," film historian David Thomson explores how the form of movies makes us accomplices in the narrative process of murder, unpacking classics such as "Seven," "Kind Hearts and Coronets," "Strangers on a Train," "The Conformist," "The Godfather," and "The Shining." Thomson offers a disconcerting sense of how the form of movies makes us accomplices in this sinister narrative process, being seductive and astringent, serious and suddenly hilarious.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2020
Publisher: Yale University Press

"Murder and the Movies" is a captivating exploration of the portrayal of murder in film by renowned movie critic David Thomson. Thomson's analysis delves into the intricate nuances of death and its significance within Hitchcock's movies, showcasing a profound restlessness and anxiety that resonate with the political and medical climate of the time. Lisa Schwarzbaum, in her review for the New York Times Book Review, praised Thomson's work, stating that his book offers a disconcerting insight into how the form of movies makes us accomplices in the sinister narrative of murder.

Thomson's book takes readers on a journey through a series of classic films, including "Seven," "Kind Hearts and Coronets," "Strangers on a Train," "The Conformist," "The Godfather," and "The Shining." Through his meticulous analysis, Thomson uncovers the ways in which these movies manipulate our perceptions and emotions, making us complicit in the narrative of murder. He challenges our assumptions about morality and ethics, asking us to consider the role that movies play in shaping our understanding of violence and death.

One of the key themes that Thomson explores in "Murder and the Movies" is the notion of the "warped triangle." This triangle consists of three key elements: the creator, the killer, and the entranced reader or spectator. Thomson argues that the movies create a compelling narrative that draws us in, making us empathize with the killer's motives and actions. At the same time, the movies also offer a sense of escapism and entertainment, allowing us to enjoy the thrill and excitement of the story. However, Thomson cautions that this sense of escapism can blind us to the real-world consequences of murder and violence.

Through his witty and subversive writing style, Thomson offers a nuanced and thought-provoking analysis of the portrayal of murder in film. He challenges our assumptions and encourages us to think critically about the messages that movies convey about violence and death. "Murder and the Movies" is a must-read for anyone interested in film, literature, and the complexities of human behavior."

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 151 x 224 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300220018