Film Ecology

This book presents a unique approach to film theory by applying Doughnut Economics, encouraging a sustainable perspective in cinema analysis and practice.

In Film Ecology, Susan Hayward explores the innovative Regenerative economic model, commonly referred to as Doughnut Economics, as a framework for understanding film theory and practice. This book presents a compelling argument for a transformative approach to cinema, challenging traditional methods and encouraging a deeper engagement with ecological concerns. By integrating principles from Doughnut Economics, Hayward seeks to redefine how we analyze films, moving beyond conventional metrics like genre or star power, and instead focusing on ecological impacts and sustainability.

The text addresses critical questions posed by T.J. Demos in his work, Against the Anthropocene. Hayward delves into the pressing issues of planetary harm and its representation in film studies, examining how mainstream narrative cinema often perpetuates the growth-centric model of capitalism. Through the lens of Doughnut Economics, Film Ecology offers a fresh perspective on how films can be evaluated through an ecological framework, providing insights into the environmental transgressions depicted in various cinematic works.

With a rich array of examples from notable films such as The Giant, Mildred Pierce, Erin Brockovich, Wall Street, Hotel Rwanda, and Missing Figures, this book serves as a resource for film practitioners, theorists, critics, and students. It encourages readers to incorporate the Doughnut model into their analyses and creative processes, fostering a more sustainable approach to filmmaking and film criticism.