American Dream in Hollywood What is the author’s purpose in writing this article? Do you think the American Dream as the author defines it is a reality or a myth?
[1] Tinseltown1 didn’t invent the American dream, but it sure put it out
there for the world to see — a dream lit by the perpetual sunshine of
Southern California, steeped in the values of the immigrant filmmakers
who moved there in the early 1900s and got enormously rich.
[2] It was their own outsider experience these Italian, Irish, German
and often Jewish moviemakers were putting on screen, each
optimistic,2 escapist fantasy a virtual American dream checklist:
● Hard work carries the day in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
● Little guy makes good in the oil-rich world of Giant.
● Character matters more than birth, as no one knows better
than Luke Skywalker in Star Wars.
● And you make your success as an individual, says rugged
individual John Wayne in The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.
[3] Hollywood’s not called a dream factory for nothing. It
manufactures optimism, and in the process of selling it, can make the
possibility of success feel wondrously real.
[4] During the Great Depression,3
for instance, the silent comedy
Modern Times had Charlie Chaplin’s Little Tramp4
imagining not great
wealth, but an idyllic5 middle-class existence, in a house with orange
trees and a white picket fence. It was a vision of the American dream
shared by many who were struggling during that time.
[5] But is the American dream as depicted in Hollywood films a
reality or a myth? That depends on who you ask. Some argue that it is
a myth, an unattainable ideal that only exists on the silver screen. Others
believe that it is a reality, a tangible goal that can be achieved with hard
work and perseverance.
[6] The truth likely lies somewhere in between. While Hollywood may
exaggerate the possibilities of the American dream, it also provides
inspiration and hope. It tells stories of ordinary people achieving
extraordinary success, reminding us that with determination and
talent, anything is possible.
[7] However, it is important to remember that Hollywood is just that -
Hollywood. It is a place of make-believe, where reality is often twisted
and distorted. The American dream as portrayed in films is often
simplified and sanitized, leaving out the struggles and challenges that
come with pursuing one’s dreams.
[8] In reality, the American dream is complex and multifaceted. It is
different for each individual, and it can evolve over time. It is not simply
about financial success, but also about personal fulfillment and
happiness.
[9] Ultimately, the American dream is what we make of it. Hollywood
may provide the fantasies, but it is up to us to turn those dreams into
reality.
The author's purpose in writing this article is to discuss the portrayal of the American Dream in Hollywood films and to explore whether it is a reality or a myth. The author presents different perspectives on the topic and acknowledges that while Hollywood may exaggerate the possibilities of the American Dream, it also provides inspiration and hope. The author ultimately suggests that the American Dream is different for each individual and it is up to individuals to make their dreams into reality.
As for whether the American Dream as defined by the author is a reality or a myth, it is subjective and depends on individual beliefs and experiences. Some may believe that the American Dream is attainable through hard work and perseverance, while others may view it as an unattainable ideal portrayed only in movies.
Based on the given article, the author's purpose in writing this article is to discuss the role of Hollywood in promoting and representing the American Dream. The author highlights the influence of immigrant filmmakers on Hollywood and how they portrayed the American Dream in their films. They also mention how Hollywood manufactures optimism and makes the possibility of success feel real.
As for whether the American Dream as defined by the author is a reality or a myth, it can be argued that it is a bit of both. On one hand, Hollywood has played a significant role in perpetuating the idea of the American Dream and inspiring people to pursue success and happiness. The success stories portrayed in films can motivate individuals to work hard and achieve their goals. On the other hand, the reality of the American Dream may not always align with the portrayal in Hollywood films. The notion of becoming successful through hard work and individual effort, as depicted in movies, may not always hold true for everyone in real life. Socioeconomic factors, systemic barriers, and luck also play a significant role in determining one's success. Therefore, the American Dream can be seen as an idealized concept that may not fully reflect the realities and challenges that individuals may face in their pursuit of success.
The author's purpose in writing this article is to explore the concept of the American Dream as it is depicted in Hollywood films. The author describes how Hollywood has spread the idea of the American Dream through movies that showcase success, hard work, and individual achievement. The author also highlights the role of Hollywood in creating optimism and making the possibility of success feel real.
As for whether the American Dream, as defined by the author, is a reality or a myth, it is a subjective question and open to interpretation. Some people may argue that the American Dream, which promotes the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination, is achievable and therefore a reality. Others may see it as a myth, pointing out that social and economic barriers can hinder people's ability to achieve the American Dream.
To get a comprehensive understanding of the author's argument and their perspective on the American Dream, it is important to analyze the entire article and consider any evidence or examples provided.