Heavenly Bodies: Film Stars and Society
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Abstract
"Richard Dyer's classic and highly influential study of film celebrity has been reissued in this second edition as a testament to the enduring appeal of cinema's major stars." "Focusing on the lives and careers of three of the biggest names in Hollywood history - Marilyn Monroe, Paul Robeson and Judy Garland - he details how their screen image was constructed." "Through subtle readings of their films and a wealth of background material, he goes on to survey the development of each star's image in relation to particular social groups. Monroe is discussed in the context of 1950s sexuality and her perceived status as a victim of patriarchy; Robeson in terms of black identity and how he used his status to further anti-racist and socialist causes; and Garland as a gay icon."--BOOK JACKET.