In the Space of a Song: The Uses of Song in Film

Songs take up space and time in films. Richard Dyer’s In the Space of a Song takes off from this perception, arguing that the way songs take up space indicates a great deal about the songs themselves, the nature of the feelings they present, and who is allowed to present feelings how, when and where. In the Space of a Song explores this perception through a range of examples, from classic MGM musicals to blaxploitation cinema, with the career of Lena Horne providing a turning point in the cultural dynamics of the feeling. Chapters include: * The perfection of Meet Me in St. Louis * A Star Is Born and the construction of authenticity * ‘I seem to find the happiness I seek’: Heterosexuality and dance in the musical * The space of happiness in the musical * Singing prettily: Lena Horne in Hollywood * Is Car Wash a musical? * Music and presence in blaxploitation cinema In the Space of a Song is ideal for both scholars and students of film studies.