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JoAnn S. Dawson

Mary and Jody in the Movies

Part of "Lucky Foot Stable" series

"Mary and Jody in the Movies: A History and Analysis of the Lesbian Romance in Film" by JoAnn S. Dawson is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the representation of lesbian romance in cinema. The book delves into the evolution of lesbian representation in film, from the early days of Hollywood when such relationships were often depicted as deviant or tragic, to the more nuanced and diverse portrayals of recent years. Dawson focuses on the characters of Mary and Jody, who first appeared in the 1970 film "The Killing of Sister George," and traces their development through subsequent film adaptations and reinterpretations. The author examines how these characters have been used to both challenge and reinforce societal attitudes towards lesbianism, and how their representation has changed in response to shifts in cultural and political climates. The book is well-researched and meticulously detailed, with extensive analysis of individual films and their historical context. Dawson's writing is engaging and accessible, making the book a pleasure to read for both scholars and general readers interested in the topic. One of the strengths of "Mary and Jody in the Movies" is its intersectional approach, examining the ways in which race, class, and age intersect with sexuality in the portrayal of lesbian relationships in film. Dawson also explores the impact of independent and foreign films on the representation of lesbianism, highlighting the importance of these films in challenging mainstream Hollywood's often limited and problematic portrayals. Overall, "Mary and Jody in the Movies" is an essential read for anyone interested in the history and representation of lesbianism in film. Dawson's insightful analysis and engaging writing make for a compelling and thought-provoking book that sheds new light on this important and often overlooked aspect of cinema history.