Muscles in the movies : perfecting the art of illusion / John D. Fair, David L. Chapman.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Fair, John D., author.

Chapman, David L., 1948- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Motion pictures--History--20th century.

Motion pictures.

Human body in motion pictures.

Physical fitness in motion pictures.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (1 online resource)

Place of Publication:

Columbia, Missouri : University of Missouri Press, [2020]

Summary:

"This book tells the story of how filmmakers use and manipulate the appearance and performances of muscular men and women to enhance the appeal of their productions. The authors show how this practice, deeply rooted in western epistemological traditions, evolved from the art of photography through magic lantern and stage shows into the motion picture industry, arguing that the sight of muscles in action induced a higher degree of viewer entertainment. From silent film star Maciste to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, muscular actors appear capable of performing the miraculous, and with the aid of stunt doubles and filming contrivances, they do. By such means, muscles are used to perfect the art of illusion, inherent in moviemaking from its earliest days"-- Provided by publisher.

Contents:

XIV. Beach Muscle Bodies

XV. Pursuing the American Dream

XVI. A Heroic Tradition?

XVII. Perfecting the Illusion

Selected Bibliography

Index

Intro

Contents

List of Illustrations

Preface and Acknowledgments

Introduction

Part I: Early Movie Muscles

I. Muscles in Motion

II. Maciste and the First Forzuti

III. Silent Queens of Sport

IV. Muscles Speak Louder Than Words

V. Mighty Sons of Maciste

VI. Daredevils, Acrobats, and Athletes

Part II: Muscles of Action and Allure

VII. The Athletic Body

VIII. The Superheroes

IX. Days of Greek Gods

X. Female Muscles in Action

XI. Manly Men of Muscle

Part III: Muscles for Show

XII. Athena

XIII. Mighty Sons of Hercules

Notes:

Description based on print version record.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9780826274502

0826274501

OCLC:

1184122824