Exploring the relevance of Jungian theory as it applies to science fiction, horror and fantasy films, this text demonstrates the remarkable correlation existing between Jung's major archetypes and recurring themes in various film genres. An introduction acquaints readers with basic Jungian theory archetypes before proceeding to film analysis. A diverse selection of movie and television summaries illustrate the relationship between a particular Jungian image and the examined films.

Among the various Jungian patterns studied are the father archetype, the split between persona and shadow, the search for the grail, the alchemist traveler, and the development of the child archetype. From Star Wars and Planet of the Apes to Back to the Future and Indiana Jones, the interdependence of Jungian theory and film themes and contents unfold. Creative and innovative, this text unearths new Jungian territory that will appeal not only to psychology and film studies scholars and researchers, but also to those studying communication and literature.

An innovative, archetypal analysis of popular science-fiction and fantasy films.

About the Author

JAMES F. IACCINO is Professor of Psychology at Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois. Extensive publications in psychology include his recent title, Psychological Reflections on Cinematic Terror (Praeger, 1994) and his comprehensive physiological text, Left Brain-Right Brain Differences: Inquiries, Evidence, New Approaches (1993).

Book Information
ISBN 9780275950484
Author James F. Iaccino
Format Hardback
Page Count 240
Imprint Praeger Publishers Inc
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing Plc