In the Space of a Song

Richard Dyer "s In the Space of a Songtakes an in-depth look at the use of songs in film. Songs take up space and time in film and the way they do so indicates a great deal about the songs themselves, the nature of the feelings they present, and who is allowed to present feelings how, when and where. In the Space of a Songexplores this perception through a range of examples, from classic MGM musicals to blaxploitation cinema, with the career of Lena Horne providing a turning point in the cultural dynamics of the feeling. Chapters include: The Perfection of Meet Me in St. Louis A Star Is Bornand the Construction of Authenticity I Seem to Find the Happiness I Seek ": Heterosexuality and Dance in the Musical The Space of Happiness in the Musical Singing Prettily: Lena Horne in Hollywood Is Car Washa Musical? Music and Presence in Blaxploitation Cinema In the Space of a Songis ideal for both scholars and students of film studies.Dyer, R. is the author of 'In the Space of a Song', published 2010 under ISBN 9780415223744 and ISBN 0415223741.