Examining how the discourses of youth, race, poverty and identity take
shape when Push is adapted to the big screen, this book brings
together valuable research to delve into representations of
African-American girlhood.
The book draws attention to how Black girlhood takes shape in the film
under the dominant White discourses that racialise non-White bodies, and
examines how these discourses inform a critical reception of the film
and Precious, as a Black girl. Through a consideration of Black culture
and heritage, it questions what narratives of girlhood, growth and
development are afforded to the main character, in a film that is
informed by neoliberal and colour-blind discourses. Highlighting the
social context in which Precious was received, the book draws
attention to how a discussion of Precious in the critical press gives
insight into the racial politics that were dominant at the time of the
film's release. It considers whether race impacts how the film engages
with, reflects and moves beyond conventions within the genre of youth
film.
Concise and engaging, this vital book sheds light on underrepresented
areas of film studies that make it an invaluable resource for students
and scholars of film, race and youth cultures.