Initiation into American Cultu
Initiation into American CultuInitiation into American Culture:
The Hollywood Smoke Screen
As a foreigner looking inward through a glass window, the foundation of the American culture appears to be based on the idealism of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Each year thousands migrate into the United States in search of freedom, democracy and the distinguished American Dream.
The perception of the American Dream is initiated by several secondary sources; one of significance being American films. The cultural initiation made by American films is a drawbridge between one's ethnic social behavior, and the comprehension of the American culture. Foreigners are initially exposed to American culture by consuming images projected by Hollywood productions. Conversely, once immigrants experience life in America first-hand, they are shocked by the false perceptions created by the Hollywood smoke screen.
The American culture is glorified by its film industry. Each year films such as The Secret to my Success (Michael J. Fox), Coming to America (Eddie Murphy), Switching Places (Eddie Murphy), and Pretty Woman (Julia Roberts & Richard Gear) are viewed by millions across the globe. The movie screens portray illusions of freedom, wealth, romance, and happy endings. To Foreigners, the phrase "life in America" brings to mind images from the television series 90210 and Melrose...
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