America was certainly the big winner of World War II, being the last major country intact. Euphoria, hubris, and a naive self-confidence became hallmarks of the people. This hubris was dented a bit in the 1950s when scandals erupted around the TV quiz shows that made everyoe feel so smart, and the U-2 spy incident of 1960 that revealed Americans were being lied to by the government. The book argues that these two events began the credibility gap that engulfed the nation later in the 1960s ...

1950s Cold War-era monsters meet 21st century terrorists: this exploration of sci-fi movies examines the similarities and differences between the political environment and popular culture of two eras. This examination and appreciation of 1950s science fiction films includes behind-the-scenes tales about their production and many quotes from those who produced and starred in the films. The author draws parallels between the Cold War fears of the 1950s and 60s and the constant terrorism ale...

Hostile Aliens, Hollywood and Today's News A- 1950s Science Fiction Films and 9/11 is far more than a well-researched summary of science fiction films. Matthews examines one of AmericaA's most popular film forms and provides a thoughtful interpretation that should tantalize not only fans of the science fiction genre but also sociologists, film hisAtorians, and politicians.

Melvin Matthews examines the fabric of American society during a tumultuous period marked by shocking revelations and disillusionment, as a series of scandals in the late 1950s challenged the American belief in the integrity of its institutions.The eerie fact is that a complacent population was addictively drawn to fantasies and improbable scenarios on the screen - with the "willing suspension of disbelief" - and such implausible stories in the news were swallowed just the same, wi...