Prof. Zwick - Film & Book Resources for the Aspiring Criminologist: Books About Crime Films

Looks at how detective films have reflected and shaped our ideas about masculinity, heroism, law and order, and national identity.

The films of the Coen brothers have become a contemporary cultural phenomenon, with a unique style combining classic genres like film noir with black comedy. This study surveys Oscar-winning films, such as Fargo (1996) and No Country for Old Men (2007), as well as cult favorites, including O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) and The Big Lebowski (1998). Beginning with Blood Simple (1984), it examines major themes and generic constructs and offers diverse approaches to the Coens' enigmatic films.

Provides a historical account of how serial killers became famous, and how that fame has been used in popular media and culture. Schmid unveils a new understanding of serial killers by emphasizing both the social dimensions of their crimes, and their susceptibility to multiple interpretations and uses.

The identity of Jack the Ripper has consumed public curiosity since he first tormented the East End of London in 1888. Numerous theories have been offered as to his identity, but he remains in the shadows where, only imaginative literature has been able to elucidate his meaning to the modern world. This work surveys the literary, film, television, and radio treatments of Jack the Ripper and his crimes.

Rausch examines the creative output of this remarkable pair. Drawing upon interviews and other sources, Rausch goes behind the scenes of their films, providing insight and analysis on all their collaborations.

A Panorama of American Film Noir addresses the essential amorality of its subject from a decidedly Surrealist angle, focusing on noir's dreamlike, erotic, ambivalent and cruel atmosphere, and setting it in the social context of mid-century America. Includes a film noir chronology, a voluminous filmography, a comprehensive index and a selection of black-and-white production stills.

Analyzes how location-shot crime films of the 1970s reflected and influenced understandings of urban crisis.