Motion Picture Biographies

Sound Bite

Hollywood movies are famous for promoting negative stereotypes of all kinds, especially against minorities, women, Southerners, and Christians. To what extent are the biographical films selected for production according to certain biases, conscious or unconscious, among the Hollywood elite?

About the Book

Moviegoers and history lovers know what a tremendous educational resource is being wasted (1) by the over-commercialization of the modern-day motion picture, and (2) by the continued control of this important communications medium in the hands of a narrow interest group who frequently use the film medium as their own private propaganda machine.

Here, an attorney (author of seven other books about the film industry) gives example after example of the patterns of bias made evident in which films are produced and how certain types of people are consistently - and unfairly - portrayed.

One body of films that provides an excellent opportunity to explore the question of whether Hollywood movies exhibit certain patterns of bias is that entire body of work referred to as "bio-pics," (i.e., motion picture biographies). The Hollywood bio-pics are particularly suited for such a study, because there can be little pre-selection by a film industry observer as to which films are to be included in the research sample (i.e., the studio executives and filmmakers themselves have already decided which subjects they deemed worthy of a film biography). Thus, once these films are isolated, they can be examined to determine if there seems to be a Hollywood preference for certain types of people (e.g., political liberals as opposed to conservatives, Europeans as opposed to people from other parts of the globe, recent immigrants to the U.S. versus those whose families have been in the U.S. for longer periods of time, people with a Jewish heritage as opposed to those who do not have a Jewish heritage, and so forth).

Introduction

Is Hollywood selectively portraying reality? Do the films that make it to our screen truly reflect the real world, and are the studios  simply making the movies that audiences want to see?

This work grew out of the observed frustration of film industry experts who have chosen to criticize specific Hollywood movies over the years, only to be rebuffed by the overly simplistic studio-executive arguments that moviegoers significantly influence the choices relating to which movies are made "by voting with their pocket books" at the theatre box office.

After all, if it can be shown that consistent patterns of bias exist in the choices Hollywood studio executives make with respect to the movies they produce and release, as well as in the specific content of those movies, and if that same bias is not reflected in our general population, the answer becomes obvious.

Mr. Cones demonstrates convincingly that moviegoers only have limited options among all of the possibilities that could be portrayed on the silver screen. The moviegoers themselves could not possibly have a meaningful impact on these executive-level motion picture choices, since they have never been given the freedom to choose from a comprehensive slate of possibilities....

This book builds upon the earlier work of George F. Custen, who in 1992 published a study of Hollywood biopics under the title Bio/Pics: How Hollywood Constructed Public History. Custen's book clearly illustrated that a Hollywood slant on history is apparent from viewing that particular body of films.

Custen's study reviewed 291 biopics produced by the major studios and independent production companies during the period 1927-1960. This work is a follow-up to the Custen study. It attempts to extend the time period covered by the study of motion picture biographies, to include more recent biopics (through the early '90s) and to raise additional important questions not pursued (i.e., avoided) by Custen.

This current study includes synopses or reviews for 443 such films released during the period from 1912 through 1994. As Custen points out, some "characteristics of the films . . . are available without a close viewing of the particular film." Of course, the flip side of that statement is that some characteristics of the biopics cannot be determined without viewing the films. Thus, since neither Custen's nor this study of Hollywood biopics can claim to have viewed each of the films in the study, these reports should not be considered the final word on this subject (i.e., there is room for more work to be done in this area). Specifically, it is not always clear as to whether a particular portrayal is positive or negative when merely reading reviews or synopses of films, although in most instances, that editorial slant can be ascertained.

As noted above, brief synopses of Hollywood biopics produced and/or released during the years covered from 1912 through 1994, provide the basis for the discussion and analysis contained in this book. The more limited conclusions drawn by Custen and those based on the extended study are set forth, along with some comparative analysis of both.

Ultimately, the questions raised come down to: does this entire body of work (the biopics) show a Hollywood bias toward certain kinds of people in terms of the number of portrayals, who is portrayed and how?

Information

Cleaning Hollywood's Lens on History: In Motion Picture Biographies: The Hollywood Spin on Historical Figures, John Cones provides an in-depth analysis of how Hollywood portrays historical figures and events. This book examines the fine line between fact and fiction in biographical films, exploring the motivations behind creative liberties and their implications for public perception of history.

The Power of Film to Shape History: Movies have the unique ability to bring historical figures and events to life. Cones highlights how this powerful medium often serves as both an educator and an entertainer. Through thoughtful critique, the book explores how filmmakers balance the demands of storytelling, audience appeal, and historical accuracy, questioning whether the sacrifices made in the name of drama are justifiable.

Understanding Hollywood’s Agenda: The book delves into the reasons behind Hollywood's "spin" on history. From box office pressures to political and cultural influences, Cones unpacks the factors that lead filmmakers to distort facts or amplify certain narratives. He examines case studies of popular biographical films, revealing how decisions about casting, scripting, and direction contribute to a specific interpretation of history.

The Impact on Public Memory: Cones argues that film is the primary source of historical knowledge for many people, making its portrayals highly influential. By scrutinizing these portrayals, the book sheds light on how they shape societal beliefs about iconic figures and pivotal moments in history. Whether it’s the glorification of certain characters or the omission of critical details, Cones illustrates how these choices can redefine our collective understanding of the past.

Case Studies and Controversies: From films about political leaders and cultural icons to stories of war and innovation, Cones analyzes a wide range of movies. Each chapter focuses on specific films that have sparked debate over their historical accuracy. The book discusses both the successes and failures of Hollywood’s attempts to honor the truth while entertaining audiences.

A Guide for Film Lovers and Historians: Motion Picture Biographies is an essential read for anyone passionate about film, history, or both. Cones strikes a balance between scholarly critique and accessible writing, making the book appealing to casual moviegoers, film enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. His insights offer valuable lessons for viewers who wish to approach biographical films with a more critical eye.

The Call for Responsible Filmmaking: By the end of the book, Cones challenges filmmakers to consider their ethical responsibility when depicting real people and events. He advocates for a more transparent approach, where artistic interpretation does not come at the cost of historical integrity.

A Reality Check for Cultural Critics: This book invites readers to reflect on their own assumptions about the past and encourages a dialogue about the role of media in shaping cultural memory. A blend of insightful analysis and engaging commentary, Motion Picture Biographies is a thought-provoking addition to the conversation on Hollywood’s portrayal of history.