The Fascination of Film Violence is a study of why fictional violence is such an integral part of fiction film. How can something dreadful be a source of art and entertainment? Explanations are sought from the way social and cultural norms and practices have shaped biologically conditioned violence related traits in human behavior.
'Screen violence has been a core feature of cinema throughout its history. Henry Bacon gives us a wise and perceptive exploration of the uncanny appeals of movie violence and the numerous ways that it engages and affects audiences. This is an elegant and persuasive treatment of a complex and paradoxical subject.' - Stephen Prince, author of Savage Cinema: Sam Peckinpah and the Rise of Ultraviolent Movies