Myths and Stereotypes in American Film Finally, the film industry has expressed in movies an exaggerated perception of what the "American Dream." A foreigner would see the American culture to be based on the idealism of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The phrase "life in America" brings to mind images of living in the perfect neighborhood, having a big home, a beautiful and perfect family and money would never be a burden. The perception of the American Dream is initiated by several American films. The movie screens portray illusions of freedom, wealth, romance, and happy endings. Those of us who reside in the United States recognize the reality that the average population the American Dream is nothing more than a myth. "When we look at our society, we can see that many of our myths are wish-fulfillment but even that tells us something about the society that dreams such dreams. The American Dream is the American Myth. Our 'dream' is the fantasy of an individualistic, capitalistic society, and the uncritical literary presentations of the story of the poor boy who gets rich are its myths--as are the true stories that stick to the basic plotline. And although they may not be reflections of American reality, they are reflections of American ideals" (Nestvold). The image is found here. |