Stephen Glynn Books

The book offers an in-depth academic analysis of boxing in British film, examining representations of boxers, managers, and supporters across various social classes and contexts. It delves into the sport's complexities, including the pain-reward dynamic and societal attitudes towards boxing, while addressing broader themes of class, gender, and race. Covering a range of films from comedies to serious dramas, it highlights how boxing serves as a lens for understanding significant historical changes in the British film industry.

The narrative follows four young men from Liverpool as they navigate the evolution of youth culture, transitioning from vibrant teen experiences to the exploration of counterculture. Their journey encapsulates the spirit of an era marked by rebellion and experimentation, highlighting the transformative impact of these cultural shifts on their lives.

The book provides an in-depth analysis of how British films depict pupils, teachers, and secondary education over the past century. It examines themes such as public versus state schooling, the dynamics of gender in teaching, and the portrayal of childhood and adolescence. By analyzing films from Hitchcock to Harry Potter, it reveals the significance of school life in British culture and cinema. Additionally, it highlights the evolution of the British film industry and reflects societal concerns related to gender, race, and class through the lens of school films.

Focusing on the horseracing genre in British cinema, this book provides an in-depth academic analysis of its production and reception from the 1890s to today. It examines the aesthetic and emotional impact of these films, highlighting the representation of horse owners, riders, bookmakers, and punters. Through detailed textual analysis and contextual histories, it sheds light on the ideological nuances within this popular genre, encompassing a range of film styles from silent shorts to major biopics.

The book provides an in-depth academic analysis of theatrically-released spinoff films from British sitcoms, challenging the perception of these films as low-quality productions. It traces their significance in British cinema from the 1940s onward, highlighting their artistic merits and economic motivations. By examining the genre's evolution and its impact on the film industry, the study argues for the importance of sitcom spinoff films as a lasting and influential element of British cultural production.

Focusing on David Bowie's film career, this monograph offers an in-depth academic analysis of his roles and appearances in various films. It combines close textual analysis with insights into production and reception histories, showcasing Bowie's impact on cinema. The exploration includes performance documentaries and highlights the unique aspects of his artistic contributions to the silver screen, providing a comprehensive understanding of his multifaceted career in film.

Exploring the portrayal of British football in cinema, this book offers an academic analysis from early silent films to contemporary multi-screen representations. It highlights the game's significance in national culture and daily life, emphasizing its enduring impact on British identity. Through various cinematic lenses, the work examines how football reflects societal values and experiences throughout history.

1964: Mods clash with Rockers in Brighton, creating a moral panic. 1973: ex-Mod band The Who release Quadrophenia, a concept album following young Mod Jimmy Cooper to the Brighton riots and beyond. 1979: Franc Roddam directs Quadrophenia, a film based on Pete Townshend's album narrative; its cult status is immediate. 2013: almost fifty years on from Brighton, this first academic study explores the lasting appeal of 'England's Rebel Without a Cause'. Investigating academic, music, press, and fan-based responses, Glynn argues that the 'Modyssey' enacted in Quadrophenia intrigues because it opens a hermetic subculture to its social-realist context; it enriches because it is a cult film that dares to explore the dangers in being part of a cult; it endures because of its 'emotional honesty', showing Jimmy as failing, with family, job, girl, and group; it excites because we all know that, at some point in our lives, 'I was there!'