The hunt as a spectacle and metaphor: the role of hunting scenes in feature films Cover Image

Polowanie jako spektakl i metafora: rola scen myśliwskich w filmach fabularnych
The hunt as a spectacle and metaphor: the role of hunting scenes in feature films

Author(s): Alicja Helman
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Film / Cinema / Cinematography
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Śląskiego
Keywords: hunting; death; war; metaphor; ritual

Summary/Abstract: The author discusses hunting scenes in film representing a variety of genres not for their iconography, but rather for their metaphorical impact. Filmmakers use hunting as a metaphor to speak about completely different issues. They explore political topics, expose their ideological and ethical aspects, focus on instances of customary behaviour. Alicja Helman points out the link between hunting and death. According to her, people who are capable to kill animals are also capable to kill people – not only at war, but for other reasons as well. The article focuses mainly on the works which became models for later films belonging to the traditions of ethno‑fiction, western, horror, and psychological drama.

  • Issue Year: 2018
  • Issue No: 4
  • Page Range: 271-292
  • Page Count: 22
  • Language: Polish