Pictures at a Revolution by Mark Harris

Pictures at a Revolution: Five Movies and the Birth of the New Hollywood by Mark Harris offers an illuminating examination of a pivotal moment in cinema history. This book delves into the revolutionary shift in Hollywood during the 1960s, focusing on five influential films that marked the beginning of what is known as New Hollywood. Harris provides an in-depth analysis of how these films reflected and influenced the changing cultural landscape of the time. For film enthusiasts and historians alike, Pictures at a Revolution is a compelling exploration of how cinema evolved during a time of great social and artistic upheaval.

Author’s Background

Mark Harris is an acclaimed author and journalist with a deep knowledge of the film industry. Known for his insightful commentary and thorough research, Harris has written extensively about Hollywood and its history. His previous works, including Five Came Back, showcase his ability to combine engaging storytelling with rigorous analysis. In Pictures at a Revolution, Harris brings his expertise to bear on the transformative period of the 1960s, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of how cinema was reshaped during this era.

In Depth Summary

The Revolution Begins

Pictures at a Revolution begins with a detailed exploration of the Hollywood landscape before the 1960s. Harris sets the stage by describing the traditional studio system and its dominance over American cinema. The book then shifts to the five films that played a crucial role in this cinematic revolution: Bonnie and Clyde, The Graduate, Dr. Dolittle, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and In the Heat of the Night.

The Films and Their Impact

1. Bonnie and Clyde (1967): Harris delves into how Bonnie and Clyde, directed by Arthur Penn, broke away from traditional film norms with its violent imagery and anti-establishment tone. The film’s success signaled a shift towards more daring and innovative storytelling, challenging the conventions of Hollywood’s past.
2. The Graduate (1967): Directed by Mike Nichols, The Graduate is explored for its impact on the portrayal of youth and sexuality. Harris examines how the film’s blend of humor and drama, along with its memorable soundtrack, captured the zeitgeist of the era and resonated with a generation looking for new ways to see themselves on screen.
3. Dr. Dolittle (1967): Harris contrasts the success of the previous two films with the commercial failure of Dr. Dolittle. Despite its star-studded cast and large budget, the film struggled to connect with audiences. Harris analyzes the reasons behind its lackluster performance and its implications for Hollywood’s shifting landscape.
4. Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967): Stanley Kramer’s Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner is examined for its handling of race and social issues. Harris discusses the film’s role in addressing contemporary social tensions and its place in the broader context of Hollywood’s evolving approach to serious topics.
5. In the Heat of the Night (1967): The final film Harris explores is In the Heat of the Night, directed by Norman Jewison. The book covers how this film tackled racial tensions in America and its success in addressing complex social issues while still providing gripping entertainment.

The Cultural Shift

Harris provides a comprehensive analysis of how these films collectively contributed to the transformation of Hollywood. He details the challenges faced by traditional studios and the rise of a new generation of filmmakers who were unafraid to push boundaries. The book also examines the ways in which these films reflected and influenced broader social and cultural changes during the 1960s.

Themes and Insights

The Emergence of New Hollywood

A key theme in Pictures at a Revolution is the emergence of New Hollywood, a period characterized by a departure from the old studio system and the rise of a more innovative and risk-taking approach to filmmaking. Harris explores how the success of the five films marked the beginning of a new era in cinema, where directors gained more creative control and storytelling became more reflective of contemporary issues.

Cultural Reflection and Influence

The book highlights how the five films not only mirrored the changing cultural landscape of the 1960s but also influenced public perceptions and societal attitudes. Harris examines how the films addressed themes such as violence, race, and sexuality, contributing to a broader cultural dialogue and helping to shape the direction of American cinema.

The Challenges of Innovation

Harris also delves into the challenges faced by filmmakers during this transitional period. The book provides insight into the difficulties of navigating a rapidly changing industry and the resistance encountered from established studios and audiences accustomed to traditional storytelling.

Personal Reflections

Pictures at a Revolution offers a fascinating look at a transformative period in film history. Harris’s detailed research and engaging narrative provide a deep understanding of how the industry evolved during the 1960s. The book’s exploration of the five films serves as a lens through which to view the broader changes in Hollywood, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the history of cinema and the forces that have shaped it.

Recommendation

For those interested in the history of cinema and the evolution of Hollywood, Pictures at a Revolution by Mark Harris is highly recommended. The book provides an insightful and engaging analysis of a pivotal moment in film history, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how five groundbreaking films contributed to the birth of New Hollywood. Harris’s expertise and storytelling make this book a valuable addition to any film enthusiast’s library.

Impact and Legacy

Pictures at a Revolution has made a significant impact by shedding light on a critical moment in film history. Harris’s work has contributed to a greater appreciation of the films that helped shape modern cinema and the challenges faced by filmmakers during this transformative period. The book’s exploration of the rise of New Hollywood and its cultural implications has left a lasting legacy as a key resource for understanding the evolution of American cinema.

Conclusion

Mark Harris’s Pictures at a Revolution: Five Movies and the Birth of the New Hollywood offers a compelling and detailed examination of one of the most significant periods in film history. Through his insightful analysis of five influential films, Harris provides a vivid picture of how Hollywood was reshaped during the 1960s. The book’s exploration of the emergence of New Hollywood, the reflection of cultural changes, and the challenges of innovation makes it a must-read for anyone interested in the history and evolution of cinema.