Renowned film historian David Thomson, known for his critical and historical insights on cinema, argues that the portrayal of antiheroes in films has contributed to the rise of Donald Trump, as detailed in his latest book, A Sudden Flicker of Light: A Revisionist History of Movies. Thomson, who has written over 40 books, shared these views during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Thomson's Biographical Dictionary
Thomson's most celebrated work, The New Biographical Dictionary of Film, first published in 1975 and updated five times until 2014, has been hailed as one of the greatest film books ever. This comprehensive volume profiles film industry figures with a mix of factual and opinionated content. Despite its success, Thomson confirmed that there will be no further editions due to its increasing size, which makes it economically unviable to produce further updates.
Impact of Antiheroes
In his latest book, Thomson explores how iconic screen antiheroes like those in The Godfather and TV series such as The Sopranos and Breaking Bad have influenced societal norms and political landscapes, including Trump's presidency. He suggests that these characters have shaped cultural fantasies that translate into real-world dynamics, leading audiences to idolize figures of power and rebellion.
Personal Insights and Future Projects
Thomson, who overcame a childhood stammer, attributes his love for language and writing to this early challenge. He began his career with Movie Man in 1967 and has since been prolific, writing to manage his manic depression. His upcoming book will focus on Mickey Mouse, indicating his continued interest in exploring the cultural impact of iconic figures.
Film vs. Television
Thomson acknowledges television's growing influence, citing long-form series like Ozark and Babylon Berlin as modern cinematic achievements. He emphasizes their high-quality production and storytelling, which often surpass traditional films in depicting contemporary life.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/david-thomson-screen-antiheroes-trump-next-book-subject-1236638562/
