Hollywood's War with Poland, 1939-1945

Brief Summary

Hollywood's War with Poland, 1939-1945 by M.B.B. Biskupski offers a detailed exploration of the depiction of Poland in Hollywood films during the World War II era. While Hollywood was instrumental in supporting the war effort by crafting films that inflated national morale, this book sheds light on how Poland was often portrayed negatively in comparison to other invaded or victimized nations. Biskupski meticulously examines prewar and wartime films like To Be or Not to Be (1942), In Our Time (1944), and None Shall Escape (1944), assessing the broader political dynamics that influenced these narratives.

Main Themes and Topics

The main theme of the book revolves around the dual nature of Hollywood's role during World War II as both a morale booster and a propagator of selective national narratives. Biskupski highlights the disparity in the portrayal of Poland compared to other allied nations in films of that era. Through a thorough investigation into various cinematic works and historical documents, the book reveals the political biases and motivations that led to Poland's unfavorable representation. Biskupski also delves into how broader geopolitical considerations and relationships influenced Hollywood's portrayals.

Writing Style and Tone

Biskupski's writing style is scholarly yet accessible, weaving meticulous research with engaging storytelling. The tone of the book is analytical, as it dissects both film content and historical context with rigor. His approach involves a detailed examination of not just the films themselves, but also the correspondences and personal accounts from key figures in the film industry, which enrich the narrative with firsthand insights.

Criticism

While the book is thorough in its research, some readers may find the focus overly detailed, particularly in areas concerning behind-the-scenes Hollywood politics. Additionally, the book's specific focus on Poland may not appeal to those seeking a broader overview of World War II-era Hollywood films. However, for readers interested in a deep dive into this specific aspect of cinematic history, Biskupski provides a compelling and informative read.