Dying to Belong

This fascinating book begins with a new definition of the gangster film and a challenging exploration of the Hong Kong and Hollywood screen traditions.<br /> <ul> <li style=”list-style: none”><br /> </li> <li>Illuminates the way gangster films deal with the ambiguities of modern life, correcting the notion that this genre is inconsequential sensationalism<br /> </li> <li>Contends that both American and Hong Kong gangster films are against-the-grain reactions to the central fable of modern democracies that promise immigrant (and other) outsiders that they can become social insiders </li> <li>Clarifies crucial and fascinating differences between American and Hong Kong approaches to enjoining the discussion of immigrant histories by placing them in counterpoint with each other</li> <li>Draws on a range of American films, ranging from <i>Public Enemy</i> and <i>Scarface</i> to <i>Gangs of New York</i>, <i>Goodfellas</i>, and <i>The Godfather</i> </li> <li>Explores a number of Hong Kong’s 21st century gangster films, including Andrew Lau’s great trilogy, <i>Infernal Affairs,</i> and <i>Election</i> and <i>Election 2,</i> directed by Hong Kong auteur Johnnie To<br /> </li> <li>Concludes with an exclusive interview with <i>The Sopranos'</i> creator, David Chase</li> </ul>