History Goes to the Movies

<p>Can films be used as historical evidence? Do historical films make good or bad history? Are documentaries more useful to historians than historical drama?</p> <p></p> <p>Written from an international perspective this book offers a lucid introduction to the ways films are made and used cumulating with the exploration of the fundamental question what is history and what is it for?</p> <p></p> <p>Incorporating film analysis advertisements merchandise and internet forums; and ranging from late-nineteenth century short films to twenty-first century DVD 'special editions' this survey evaluates the varied ways in which filmmakers promoters viewers and scholars understand film as history. From <em>Saving Private Ryan</em> to <em>Picnic at Hanging Rock to Pocahontas</em> <em>History Goes to the Movies</em> considers that history is not simply to be found in films but in the perceptions and arguments of those who make and view them.</p> <p></p> <p>This helpful introductory text blends historical and methodological issues with real examples to create a systematic guide to issues involved in using historical film in the study of history. <em>History Goes to the Movies</em> is a much-needed overview of an increasingly popular subject.</p>