This book explores one of the most popular genres in film history. Combining classic and recent articles, each section explores a central issue of the musical,

This revealing history of the American film musical synthesizes the critical literature on the genre and provides a series of close analytical readings of iconi

... both fresh and informed, as well as a pleasure to read. --Film Quarterly Since 1982, when this book first appeared, the Hollywood musical has undergone a re

"... a model of genre criticism and probably the best overall analysis of the film musical to date." Journal of Popular Films and Television "The American Film

Bringin together key theoretical texts from respected names in the field including Andre Bevin, Walter Benjamin and Vivian Sobchack, this book examines more tha