The American Cinema of Excess: Extremes of the National Mind on Film

Focusing on the portrayal of excess in American cinema, the book introduces a critical framework that examines how these excesses reflect a unique "madness" inherent in American culture. It critiques traditional analytical methods, proposing a dramatic criticism rooted in Aristotle's tragedy theory. The exploration spans various themes, including paranoia, aggression, and cultural issues, ultimately contrasting cinematic excess with moments of critical awareness that highlight the strengths of the American psyche.