In the Space of a Song: The Uses of Song in Film

by Richard Dyer

Songs take up space and time in films. Richard Dyer's In the Space of a Song takes off from this perception, arguing that the way songs take up space indicates a great deal about the songs themselves, the nature of the feelings they present, and who is allowed to present feelings how, when and where. In the Space of a Song explores this perception through a range of examples, from classic MGM musicals to blaxploitation cinema, with the career of Lena Horne providing a turning point in the cultural dynamics of the feeling.

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2011

Reviews

[Daniel Muleady · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a film major with a background in music, I thought I would enjoy this more than "A Matter of Images". While Dyer does his best to give context for each of the musicals that is mentioned and analyzed (Meet Me In St. Louis, Car Wash, etc.), I believe it is extremely important to have watched each of the films.

[Simone · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up on a whim from the library and read it just cause I love Dyer so much, and he doesn't' disappoint. Most of these chapters were written for other publications, but this is still awesome, especially after recently rewatching "Singing in the Rain" in class. It's not for the casual fan (it's still a dense book by Dyer) but I thought it was great for film studies scholars.