The Secret Life of Movies: Schizophrenic and Shamanic Journeys in American Cinema - Paperback

by Jason Horsley (Author)

Film blurs the line between myth and reality better than any other artistic medium, one could argue. Using movies to explore the unconscious realms of society in order to reach a better understanding of what drives it, this book examines filmmakers and films that center on schizophrenic themes of alienation, paranoia, breakdown, fantasy, dreams, dementia and violence, and that address--as entertainment--the schizophrenic experience. The loss of individual identity as reflected in the films is investigated, as well as the shamanic potential inherent in the broader theme.

Author Biography

A longtime film reviewer, Jason Horsley's other writings include a novel, screenplays and several nonfiction books about modern cinema. His filmmaking projects include The God Game, Beauty Fool and Being the One. A native of England, he currently lives in Canada.