Payback: The Essential Revenge Thriller Films

by Stephen Hoover

Revenge plots can make for some of the most memorable films out there. The Essential Revenge Films takes a look at what makes these films work and why they can be so memorable. The book also takes a look at some of the tropes you’ll find in these films and doesn’t shy away from the fact that some of them are downright disturbing in their implications, as are many of these films. Some of the greatest art is very dark and, where these films are concerned, darkness abounds.The book takes a look at questions such as why we identify with the protagonists in these films, who oftentimes cross very serious legal and moral boundaries in seeking vengeance. It explores themes in these films and how the narratives really tend to have a very common structure to them. It also explores how heroes of different genders are typically given different story arcs and, quite often, very different means of getting revenge on the people who wronged them.From exploitation flicks like Ms. 45 to classics of the genre such as Death Wish, this book explores a wide range of films. One of the most compelling things about these films is how universal a thing revenge really is, and how its inevitable consequences are so similar across time and culture. When want something a bit lighter, straight up action revenge thrillers such as Parker provide an option, as do darkly comedic revenge films like Payback.The Essential Revenge Films provides good insights into these films and explores why, generation after generation, audiences can’t seem to get enough of them.

200 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 2, 2014

About the author

Stephen Hoover is an author and attorney. His recent feature film TINKER' is available on Amazon and Netflix. Two other films (PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC and HORROR COMIC) are in development.